ELBERTON, Ga. — The search continues for a missing fisherman who disappeared last week in Elbert County.
David Payton has not been seen since March 3 after going fishing in the area of Highway 368 near Lake Russell, according to the Elbert County Sheriff’s Office.
Sheriff Jamie Callaway said deputies and emergency personnel spent Saturday expanding search efforts around the lake, using both foot teams and all-terrain vehicles to comb additional areas.
Multi-agency search
The weekend search follows a large, multi-agency effort on Friday focused around the Coldwater Creek boat ramp area.
Agencies assisting in the search included Elbert County Emergency Services, Elbert County Fire, the Elbert County Dive Team, Hart County Emergency Services, Oglethorpe County Emergency Services, Madison County Emergency Services, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources and the Georgia State Patrol Aviation Unit.
Officials said crews searched the area for hours using drones, K-9 units, boats and aircraft.
Callaway thanked everyone who helped in the search. Authorities say the search and investigation remain ongoing.
Anyone with information about Payton’s whereabouts is asked to contact Elbert County Central Dispatch at 706-283-2420 or call 911.
