Two women went missing Monday after a group of 12 people in paddleboards and rafts went over the Bosher Dam on the James River near Richmond, Virginia.
A resident in the area told NBC12 a girl came to the door saying her friends had fallen into the river. Ten others involved in the accident were rescued by civilians and first responders. (RELATED: One Person Slips Off Oceanside Cliff As Three Friends Reach Out To Save Him, Tragedy Ensues)
The dam drops about 12 feet, and the river reached a high level of nine feet Monday, according WAVY 10 News.
“Someone came and banged on our window saying that their group went over the dam,” a local resident told NBC12. “So, we ran out there, and we were trying to help get people out of the water and make sure that everyone was accounted for. Unfortunately, we couldn’t find two of them, but we were going off through there making sure everyone got over onto the shore safely.”
BREAKING: Richmond Fire confirms that 12 people were involved in an incident on the James River where they fell in near Bosher’s Dam. 10 people have been accounted for but two females have not yet been found. Crews are suspending search for tonight. Will pick up tomorrow. @NBC12 pic.twitter.com/dJjRy6K2cI
— John Hood NBC12 (@JohnHoodTV) May 31, 2022
Rescue crews are continuing their search. “After a very thorough search today, this evening, we ceased operations this evening because of nightfall. We will start our search efforts tomorrow morning, first thing in the morning,” the fire department said, according to WAVY 10 News.
Assistant Fire Chief Jeffrey Segal said, “we’re very hopeful,” the Associated Press reported.