The body of a 43-year-old father of five, who disappeared while kayaking on a Georgia lake, has been found, according to local authorities. Dustin Valencia was reported missing by his wife last Wednesday when he failed to pick up his children from school. His vehicle was later discovered at Little Ridge Park on Lake Lanier.
Following an extensive search operation, a body, later identified as Valencia’s, was discovered in a cove 51 feet below the lake’s surface on Friday. Authorities believe that Valencia, a dedicated father and triathlete, had been kayaking on the lake. However, his inflatable raft was not found.
The search operation, which began on Thursday, involved multiple units on land and water. Drones and specialized marine search equipment were used in the effort. Friends and family members of Valencia also joined in the search.
Lake Lanier, where Valencia disappeared, has a history that lends itself to local folklore. Constructed in the 1950s, the lake was formed over submerged towns, forests, and cemeteries. The lake has been featured in the Netflix drama “Ozark” due to its eerie ambiance.
Since 1994, the lake has claimed the lives of over 200 people, leading to local rumors that the lake is haunted. One of the most popular legends is the “Lady of the Lake,” a supposed ghost of a woman who died in a car crash into the lake and is said to wander restlessly at night in a blue dress.
The circumstances surrounding Valencia’s death are still under investigation by the Forsyth County Sheriff’s office.