A tragic incident took place on July 28, 2024, at the French Bottoms Conservation Area in St. Joseph, Missouri, where a 21-year-old man named Johnathan S. Harness drowned in the Missouri River. Harness was swimming in the river early in the morning when he failed to resurface. A search operation was immediately initiated involving multiple agencies, including the Missouri Department of Conservation, Buchanan County Sheriff’s Office, St. Joseph Police Department, St. Joseph Fire Department, and Elwood Kansas Fire and Rescue.
After a surface search on July 29, Harness was found near the location of the initial incident and was pronounced deceased at the scene by Medical Examiner Adam Wineinger at 4:12 p.m. Harness’s body was then transported to Meierhoffer Funeral Home.
The tragic incident serves as a reminder of the dangers of swimming in bodies of water, especially rivers where currents can be unpredictable. The community of St. Joseph mourns the loss of Johnathan S. Harness, and our thoughts are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time.
The collaborative efforts of multiple agencies in the search and rescue operation are commendable, highlighting the importance of quick and coordinated response in such emergencies. Authorities urge the public to practice caution and safety measures when engaging in water activities to prevent further tragedies.
Source
Photo credit www.kttn.com