Featured image: Officials search the Buffalo National River on Tuesday for Fidel Angel Salamanca Saravia.
Authorities have discovered the body of a man who went missing after being swept under in the Buffalo National River earlier this week.
National Park Service officials report that the body of Fidel Angel Salamanca Saravia, 39, of El Salvador, was found near Shine Eye landing in the Buffalo National River late Thursday morning, just downstream from where the search began.
Salamanca Saravia was swimming with friends at Grinders Ferry, a section of the river 10 miles north of Marshall, Ark., on Tuesday, May 15, when he lost his footing and was swept underwater by the current. Officials said he was not wearing a life jacket.
National Park Service Rangers arrived on the scene and immediately began searching the area via motorized boats. The Searcy County Sheriff’s Office and Searcy County Dive Team also responded, and divers searched the water until dark on Tuesday. The search included both above-water and underwater operations.
The search for Salamanca Saravia also involved multiple agencies, including the National Park Service, Searcy County Office of Emergency Management, Newton County Sheriff’s Office, Marion County Search and Rescue, Mennonite Disaster Service, Harrison Fire Department, Carrol County Search and Rescue, Boone County Office of Emergency Management, the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission Dive Team, Hasty Fire Department, North Arkansas Regional Medical Center, Marshall Fire Department, and the American Red Cross.
“Buffalo National River staff are saddened by this loss,” acting Superintendent Jesse Morris said in a release. “We extend our condolences to his family and friends.”
Authorities urge individuals to exercise caution and familiarize themselves with the natural surroundings before swimming. Taking preventive measures such as wearing life jackets and closely supervising children can significantly reduce the risk of drowning. In case of emergencies, it is advised to immediately contact 911 or the park’s 24-hour dispatch center at 1-888-692-1162.
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