Missing hunter body found and recovered in river

SPENCER CO. – The Spencer County Sheriff’s Office confirmed on Friday evening that 22-year-old Hunter Conner, who had been missing since Thursday morning, was found in the river near the Grandview boat ramp area.

Conner went missing while waterfowl hunting on the Ohio River, around 9 a.m. Thursday, Spencer County dispatch received a call reporting Conner’s disappearance after he entered the water in a kayak to retrieve a duck. His kayak and waders were later found, but the search has been challenging due to the river’s depth, strong currents, and extensive search area.

Multiple agencies, including Indiana Conservation Officers, local fire departments, and Indiana State Police, used sonar and drag equipment throughout the day to narrow the search. A helicopter and a cadaver dog were also deployed. Family members and community volunteers gathered at the scene, offering assistance and support.

According to a post on the Sheriff’s Office Department page, Conner was located around 5:30 p.m. and recovered by Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) divers.

During this difficult time, the Sheriff’s Department expressed deep sympathy to the Conner family, asking the community to respect their privacy. They also thanked the numerous agencies and volunteers who assisted in the search, including dive teams, first responders, and search and rescue personnel.