Lake Lanier missing kayaker: Body found during search Friday afternoon

Body found during search for missing kayaker

A body was found early Friday afternoon during a search for a missing kayaker at Lake Lanier. The kayaker, Dustin Valencia, disappeared on Wednesday afternoon. The body has not been positively identified at this time.

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. - Forsyth County authorities have recovered a body from a cove near Little Ridge Park on Lake Lanier as part of an ongoing search for missing kayaker Dustin Valencia.

What we know:

Game wardens with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) located the body Friday afternoon using sonar equipment. Divers from Forsyth County Fire Department pulled the body from about 51 feet of water near the center of the cove—an area described as relatively clear of underwater debris. As of late Friday afternoon, officials have not publicly confirmed the identity of the individual.

Valencia, a father of five, was reported missing on Wednesday after failing to pick up his children from school. His wife contacted the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office and used phone tracking to locate his last known location near Little Ridge Park. Deputies later found Valencia’s car parked at the site, along with his flip-flops and the bag used to store his inflatable kayak.

On Thursday, a citizen discovered the missing kayak and paddle floating near the outer edge of the cove, helping search crews narrow the area of focus. Friends say Valencia had been training for a triathlon and was likely on the water for exercise.

Search for missing kayaker

A search is underway at Lake Lanier for a kayaker, Dustin Valencia, who disappeared while kayaking on Wednesday. His kayak, paddle and car have been found, but there has been no sign of him.

What they're saying:

Authorities have not said what may have led to Valencia’s disappearance, but DNR officials emphasized the importance of wearing life jackets, even for experienced swimmers.

"My understanding is that he was not wearing a life vest," an official said. "Even strong swimmers can have a medical emergency or cramp. If that happens and you're not wearing a life jacket, you’re at serious risk."

What's next:

While the official identification of the body remains pending, Valencia’s friends and loved ones are asking for prayers and support for his family during this difficult time. The investigation remains ongoing.

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