Indiana Conservation Officers are investigating a weekend drowning that happened near Milltown.
Authorities say the incident took place shortly before 6 pm Saturday and recovery of 48-year old Albert “Neal” Barger of New Albany was made Sunday morning just before 11 am. They say Barger, who had little swimming experience, was not wearing a life jacket when the incident occurred.
Around 6 pm Saturday, a 911 call was placed advising that the victim went missing after he and another member of the paddling group capsized their canoe. Indiana Conservation Officers and other responders arrived on scene and a recovery effort was started around 6:00 pm. Dive efforts and surface searches were unsuccessful and suspended around 11 pm Saturday.
The search resumed Sunday morning at 7, and using two types of side scan sonar, officers were able to pinpoint the victim’s location. ICO Public Safety Divers made the recovery.
Indiana Conservation Officers strongly urge everyone to always wear a life jacket when around water, especially if swimming ability and or water conditions are questionable. They say the investigation is ongoing and additional information will be provided once it becomes available.
