COPPER HARBOR — The body of one of the two canoeists who were the subject of a water-related rescue in Copper Harbor has been recovered. According to a press release from the Keweenaw County Sheriffs Department, the search began around 4 a.m. Saturday in Copper Harbor. According to the release, three people were canoeing in Copper Harbor when their canoe capsized. One of the canoeists was able to make it to shore and promptly called 911 at approximately 3:50 a.m. to report the emergency.

Multiple agencies immediately responded, including the Keweenaw County Sheriff’s Office, Keweenaw Search and Rescue, Copper Harbor Fire Department, the U.S. Coast Guard (with helicopter support), Michigan DNR, and the Michigan State Police dive team.

Deputies report that as of late Saturday evening, one of the two missing individuals had been located, and their body recovered. “Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time” the Sheriff’s Dept, said in the press release.

Search and recovery efforts for the remaining canoeist were suspended for the night due to safety and operational considerations. Recovery operations were expected to resume Sunday morning with the continued support of all involved agencies.

“We respectfully ask the public to avoid the area and to honor the privacy of the families affected … Thank you to all of the dedicated personnel and partner agencies working tirelessly on this challenging operation” the Sheriff’s Department wrote in the release.

Further updates will be provided as additional information becomes available.