Search Called Off For Missing Canoeist

Date and Time: Friday, March 2, 2012 at 11:06 a.m.

Location: Assawoman Bay, Fenwick Island, DE

Victim:
Nicholas R. Townsend, 23, Ocean City, MD (pictured below)

Resume:
Fenwick Island, DE – The search for a Maryland man missing since this morning after falling out of a canoe in the Assawoman Bay has been called off at this time.

Nicholas R. Townsend, 23, of Ocean City, MD was last seen at approximately 4:00 a.m. this morning as he and a second male subject were canoeing in the Assawoman Bay off of Fenwick Island, DE. The canoe tipped over, throwing Townsend and the second subject into the water. The second subject, whose name is being withheld at this time, was able to swim to the shore. However, Townsend was not.

The United States Coast Guard, with the assistance of the Millsboro Fire Department began a search of the bay at approximately 11:06 a.m. this morning; however, Townsend has not been located. The search was then called off at approximately 5:30 p.m.

The investigation into this incident is continuing. More detailed information will be released at the conclusion of the investigation.

The Delaware State Police are asking anyone who may have any information in reference to this incident to contact Troop 4 at 302-856-5850. Citizens may also provide a tip by texting keyword “DSP” plus your message to 274637 (CRIMES). Tipsters may also provide information through lines maintained by Delaware Crime Stoppers at (800) TIP-3333. Callers can also submit information via the internet at www.tipsubmit.com.