Search continues for missing Wetumpka boater on Alabama River

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January 13, 2026

Authorities continue searching the Alabama River for a Wetumpka man who went missing over the weekend after launching a small boat, according to information released by law enforcement and reported by multiple local news outlets.

The missing boater has been identified as James R. Dawkins, 54, of Wetumpka. Dawkins was last seen early Saturday morning, January 10, after launching a 12-foot jon boat powered by a trolling motor on the Alabama River near Shelton Landing in Autauga County.

Officials say Dawkins has not been seen or heard from since launching the boat, and search crews entered the river later that morning. The exact time he was reported missing has not been publicly confirmed.

The search effort is being led by the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, including its Marine Patrol Division and Aviation Unit. Assistance is also being provided by the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, along with Autauga County and Elmore County emergency and rescue agencies.

Authorities are asking anyone who may have information about Dawkins’ whereabouts, or who may have seen his boat on the river Saturday morning, to contact the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency or local law enforcement. The search remains ongoing.

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