This article was originally published by the Maries County Advocate December 31, 2025 by Elise Brochu, Staff Writer
CHAMOIS — A water rescue on the Missouri River concluded safely Saturday morning after two adult paddlers and a dog were located and returned to shore near Chamois.
According to the Osage County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were dispatched after receiving a call from the paddlers, who had spent the night on the river. One of the paddlers later said dense morning fog made it unsafe to continue.
Deputies responded alongside the Chamois Fire Protection District, using an Osage County Sheriff’s Office rescue boat to reach the paddlers.
Personnel involved in the rescue included Major Travis Shaffer of the Osage County Sheriff’s Office; Chamois Fire Protection District Fire Chief Sean Hackmann; Lt. Jay Bathke; Lt. Scott Mertz; and Firefighter Derek Thompson. Mertz and Thompson provided river access assistance during the operation.
“Upon our arrival in the Osage County Sheriff’s rescue boat, we located two adult paddlers and their dog, with a canoe, out on the end of a rocky river dike, with a small fire built for warmth,” Hackmann said. “It was very foggy and cold at 8 a.m. After brief assessment, they were cold but healthy. Both paddlers and dog were secured, covered with blankets, and safely returned to the Chamois river access along with their canoe. We assisted in loading their canoe and released them with their vehicle and trailer. Thanks to all involved for your help!”
Sheriff Michael Bonham said the outcome reflected both good decision-making by the paddlers and coordinated efforts by responders. He also noted Chamois Fire has cross-trained with the Sheriff’s Office for this type of event.
“Anytime we get a call like this, our first concern is getting people home safely,” Bonham said. “The Missouri River can be unforgiving, especially when fatigue, cold, and limited visibility set in. I’m thankful the canoeists made the right decision to stop and call for help, and I’m very proud of our deputies and the Chamois Fire Protection District for working together through the early morning to bring them safely back to shore. This could have ended much differently, and we’re grateful it did not.”