Local News
Search For Andruw and Wesley Cornett: Body Recovered from Thermalito Afterbay
The identity of the recovered body has not yet been confirmed, pending notification of the Cornett family.
Butte County, CA – The search for two teenage brothers who disappeared while duck hunting on December 14 has taken a tragic turn.
On Tuesday morning, a body was recovered from the Thermalito Afterbay, where the two brothers were last seen.
Andruw Cornett, 19, and Wesley Cornett, 17, vanished during a hunting trip when Wesley’s kayak capsized while he attempted to retrieve a downed duck.
Witnesses reported that Andruw, from the shore, immediately entered the frigid waters to rescue his younger brother. Despite his efforts, neither brother has been seen or heard from since.
On Tuesday at approximately 9:30 a.m., a Butte County Sheriff’s Office helicopter identified a body in the water.
However, recovery operations were briefly interrupted when an unauthorized drone flew too close to the helicopter, forcing the pilot to make an emergency landing.
The Sheriff’s Office issued a stern warning that drone interference in such operations is unlawful and may result in criminal charges.
The identity of the recovered body has not yet been confirmed, pending notification of the Cornett family.
The brothers’ disappearance occurred under difficult weather conditions. High winds and rough water created hazardous whitecaps on the afterbay, complicating their duck-hunting expedition.
Wesley’s kayak overturned as he attempted to retrieve a duck. Andruw, witnessing the incident, dialed 911 before plunging into the cold waters to assist his brother. Tragically, neither returned to shore.
The local community has been deeply impacted by the loss. Friends and family of the Cornett brothers have gathered in solidarity, hoping for closure as the search continues.
The Butte County Sheriff’s Office remains committed to the investigation and search efforts. Authorities continue to survey the area and urge the public to avoid interfering with ongoing recovery operations.
Further updates will be released as more information becomes available.
Hutchinson, KS – Authorities have issued evacuation orders for parts of downtown Hutchinson following a gas leak and building explosion on Main Street.
An emergency alert was sent to residents, advising them to avoid the area between Avenue A and Avenue F, from Adams Street to Plum Street due to the ongoing emergency.
The City of Hutchinson has urged all residents and businesses within these boundaries to evacuate immediately as a safety precaution.
The City of Hutchinson issued the following statement via Facebook:
“Due to a large fire in the downtown area, we are implementing an evacuation of Avenue A to Avenue F, and Plum to Adams. All residents and businesses within these boundaries are urged to evacuate immediately for their safety. A warming shelter has been established at the Salvation Army located at 7th and Walnut for those in need of temporary shelter. We will provide additional information as it becomes available. Please stay safe and stay tuned for further updates.”
As of now, Reno County Dispatch has not confirmed the cause of the explosion, the extent of damages, or whether there have been any injuries.
First responders remain on the scene, assessing the situation and working to contain the fire and potential hazards.
Residents are advised to stay clear of the area, follow emergency services’ instructions, and await further updates from local authorities.
This is a developing situation. Additional information will be provided as it becomes available.