Indiana Department of Natural Resources
402 W. Washington St.
Indianapolis, IN 46204

For immediate release: March 6, 2026

Indiana Conservation Officers are currently conducting search operations for a man who went missing in floodwaters in Jackson County. 

At approximately 7:20 a.m., a subject was reported missing after a boat capsized in floodwater east of Cortland near CR 400 E and State Road 258. Multiple agencies responded to the scene to assist.

An initial investigation reveals that two individuals attempted to assist people stranded in a submerged vehicle when their airboat experienced mechanical issues and was forced under a nearby bridge by swift floodwater.

The operator of the airboat was able to self-rescue and get to safety. The passenger in the boat was last seen in the water downstream where the boat capsized. Neither individual was wearing a life jacket.

Surface searches will continue in the area through this evening. Swift current and debris in the area are hampering search efforts.

Other agencies assisting on scene are the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Jackson County Emergency Medical Services, and the Hamilton Township Volunteer Fire Department.
 

To view all DNR news releases, please see dnr.IN.gov.

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Media contact: ICO Jim Hash, DNR Law Enforcement, 812-972-2507, jhash@dnr.IN.gov