Missing tubers found alive and safe after dayslong search along Muskegon River

NEWAYGO COUNTY, Mich. – Three people who went missing during a tubing trip on the Muskegon River were found alive and safe after a dayslong search involving multiple law enforcement agencies, emergency responders and volunteers.

Jazman Hock, 28, of Muskegon; Sarah Vida, 28, of Muskegon; and Vida’s 9-year-old son, Kayden Kovalcik, were located at about 4:36 p.m. on Friday (Aug. 7) by a Michigan State Police K-9 team and Michigan Department of Natural Resources conservation officers.

The three were found approximately three-quarters of a mile northeast of the Mill Iron Road Boat Launch, police said.

The discovery ended a widespread search that began after the group went missing following a tubing trip on the Muskegon River.

Officials said the three entered the water Tuesday, Aug. 4, from the Maple Island Boat Launch near Bridgeton.

The investigation began after the father of one of the women found her vehicle at the boat launch with a broken window.

Family members reported they had not heard from the group, and police said two inflatable tubes believed to belong to the missing individuals were later located.

Search crews also discovered footprints that were being evaluated as part of the investigation.

Before the three were found, Kayden’s father, Brent Kovalcik, spoke about the uncertainty surrounding their disappearance.

“I don’t know if they’re alive, I don’t know if they were kidnapped, I don’t know if they’re down the river, far, far away,” Kovalcik said.

Officials said no further information would be released at this time out of respect for the privacy of those involved.