This morning, the Sterling County Sheriff’s Office announced it was searching for two tourists, a man and a woman in their mid-30s, who went missing during the Emerald Lake 4th of July Firework display. Witnesses reported the pair missing after they failed to return from a boating expedition to observe the show.

Motel manager Katey Wilde confirmed with authorities that the couple had checked in on Thursday and were scheduled to leave on Sunday. The search efforts, which began immediately, are ongoing.

Sheriff Fen Blacach of the SCSO gave the following statement, “The Sterling County Sheriff’s Office, Eclipse Ridge Fire Department, and our partner agencies are continuing the search this morning. I can, however, confirm that a boat has been recovered at this time.”

“Anyone with information they believe pertinent should contact the Sheriff’s Office immediately.”