Franklin County, Arkansas – After nearly a week of searching, the body of a missing kayaker was found Thursday afternoon along the banks of the Mulberry River in Franklin County, Arkansas. Authorities confirmed the man as Hector Rios, 57, of Wichita, Kansas, who had last been seen on May 3 while kayaking alone.
The discovery came around 4 p.m. on May 8, when the Franklin County Search and Rescue Team located Rios’ body in a section of the river known to locals as “the Shoe.” It was found near a patch of thick brush along the riverbank, according to the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC).
“His body was found in an area locally known as the Shoe on the Mulberry River where the search had been taking place. It was located along the river bank near some brush,” said AGFC Chief Communications Officer Keith Stephens.
Rios had embarked on a solo kayaking trip over the weekend and hadn’t been seen since. The AGFC confirmed that he was not wearing a life jacket at the time he disappeared—an important detail that may have influenced the outcome of the incident.
“Stephens said Rios was not wearing a life jacket.”
During the initial stages of the search, authorities recovered Rios’ kayak and discovered that he had taken and posted several photos on social media while paddling. Investigators used those images to pinpoint specific areas along the river and focus the search efforts accordingly.
“Stephens said the missing kayak and photos helped narrow down the dive team’s search.”
The recovery operation was led by the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from the U.S. Forest Service Law Enforcement and the local search and rescue team. The coordinated efforts spanned several days, with crews scouring challenging terrain and swift water in hopes of finding Rios or any sign of his whereabouts.
Now that his body has been found, officials say it will be transported to the Arkansas State Crime Lab for an autopsy. According to AGFC, this is a standard procedure for all deaths involving boating or watercraft.
“Rios’ body is being sent to the Arkansas State Crime Lab for an autopsy, which Stephens said is standard for all boating fatalities.”
The incident serves as a somber reminder of the unpredictable nature of waterways, especially during the spring when river levels can be higher and currents stronger due to seasonal rainfall. Officials are urging the public to always wear life jackets and take proper safety measures when enjoying Arkansas’ rivers and lakes.
The Mulberry River is a popular destination for paddlers and outdoor enthusiasts, known for its scenic views and rugged beauty. But as this tragic incident highlights, even experienced individuals can run into trouble on the water.
No further information has been released at this time, and the investigation remains ongoing.
