Staff Report / October 19, 2025
MIDDLESEX, N.Y. – A tragic kayaking incident on Canandaigua Lake led to the recovery of a body Thursday October 16, 2025, after a multi-agency search lasting more than six hours.
According to the Yates County Sheriff’s Office, a distress call was received around 10:19 a.m. on October 16 reporting an overturned kayaker near the Vine Valley boat launch in the Town of Middlesex. Rescue teams from multiple departments responded quickly, deploying boats, drones, and dive units in an extensive search effort.
By mid-afternoon, divers located and recovered the body of the kayaker. Authorities have not released the individual’s identity pending notification of family members.
The operation involved coordinated efforts from the Yates County Office of Emergency Services, local fire departments from Middlesex, Branchport-Keuka Park, Rushville, Canandaigua, and Cheshire, as well as the Ontario County Sheriff’s Office dive team.
Sheriff Francis E. Ryan expressed appreciation for the swift response and cooperation among agencies involved. The Yates County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.
