Missing Bend kayaker, 74, rescued from Lake Billy Chinook

CULVER, Ore. (KTVZ) -- The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, working with Jefferson County Fire and EMS, rescued a missing kayaker from Bend late Tuesday night from the Deschutes Arm of Lake Billy Chinook.

Around 10:40 p.m., sheriff's deputies responded to a report of a missing kayaker near the Lower Deschutes Boat Ramp, Sheriff Jason Pollock said.

While deputies prepared to deploy a Sheriff’s Office patrol boat to search the water, another deputy used a thermal imaging drone in an effort to locate the subject.

The kayaker, Neil Wesner, 74, of Bend, was found in the water, clinging to his kayak and exhibiting signs of hypothermia and disorientation, the sheriff said.

Deputies pulled Wesner onto the patrol boat, where Jefferson County Fire and EMS personnel immediately began treating him. He was brought to the Lower Deschutes Boat Ramp and moved to a waiting ambulance, which took him to the hospital for further evaluation and treatment.

The sheriff told KTVZ News that Wesner was wearing a life jacket when things went awry.

"He had his phone in his hand and was able to call 911 for help before he lost connection," Pollock told us.

"This incident highlights the importance of rapid response, advanced technology, and strong teamwork between Jefferson County deputies and fire personnel," Pollock said in a news release.

"We are grateful for the successful outcome and remind all boaters to exercise caution, particularly in cold water conditions, where hypothermia can occur quickly," the sheriff added.