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Waiting For Answers

Search For Missing Falconer Man Continues On Lake

P-J photos by Eric Tichy

LAKEWOOD — The search for a missing boater who police say may have jumped into Chautauqua Lake for a swim entered its second day Sunday.

No sign of the man, identified as 47-year-old Timothy D. Yocum of Falconer, was found following an extensive search from several local agencies, including the county Water Emergency Team and a half-dozen volunteer fire departments.

Friends and family of Yocum were at the Chautauqua County Yacht Club on East Lake Street on Sunday as watercrafts searched the lake using sonar equipment.

The Sheriff’s Office said it received word of a boater possibly missing on the lake around 5:30 p.m. Saturday. Two navigation boats that were patrolling the area immediately responded to a location near Lakewood.

County dive team members began a search for Yocum shortly after he was reported missing. First responders also checked the shore near the yacht club without success Saturday. Deputies believe the Falconer man may have jumped into the water for a swim before he went missing.

The Chautauqua County Water Emergency Team pictured Sunday in Lakewood.

Search efforts lasted until 9 p.m. due to darkness and resumed Sunday morning.

In a press release, the Sheriff’s Office said the search would continue Sunday night and into today if necessary.

Agencies involved in Yocum’s search include firefighters from Lakewood, Celoron, Bemus Point, Dewittville, Ashville and Glade Township in Pennsylvania. Members from Chautauqua County Emergency Services, Starflight helicopter, New York State Police and the Sheriff’s Office have also been assisting.

No further information was available by press time.

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