Search and rescue operation underway for missing boater in St. Johns River

ST. JOHNS COUNTY, Fla. — The St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office and Clay County Sheriff’s Office has announced it is conducting a search and rescue operation to find a missing boater in the St. Johns River.

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Authorities said the search is focusing south of the Shands Bridge. It is believed the man fell off a boat in that area.

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, who is leading the search, said the call came in about a man overboard at 1:11 p.m on Friday.

Divers, drone, helicopter, and marine units are said to be on scene searching for the missing man. SJSO is assisting FWC in the search.

Authorities have opened up a command center to help search efforts.

FWC said that the operation would continue until sunset. Dive units will take over after dark.

The search operation will then continue on Saturday morning, but agencies involved in the search are well aware that weather conditions will be getting worse through the weekend.

SJSO is warning drivers to expect a large law enforcement and fire/rescue presence in the area.

This is a developing story and will be updated as more information is released.

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