The search for a missing 21-year-old kayaker on the Allegheny River has transitioned to a recovery effort after rescue crews were unable to locate him in hazardous conditions.  
 
According to Captain James Smolko of the Northwest Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, officials received a PEMA alert at 5:50 p.m. Tuesday, January 28th after reports of a capsized kayak near Tidioute, PA. Emergency crews, including local fire departments, Pennsylvania State Police (PSP), and Fish and Boat Commission officers, responded to the scene.  
 
A PSP helicopter equipped with heat sensors was deployed but was unable to detect any sign of the kayaker. Captain Smolko confirmed that the water temperature was 34 degrees and that the man was not wearing a life jacket.  
 
Tidioute Volunteer Fire Department Chief Kenny Mack said nearly 100 volunteers and first responders were involved in the search effort. "We had nearly 100 volunteers and workers out on the water and along the shore," Mack said. "Crews from Tionesta VFD, Hickory VFD, Glade Township's Swift Water Rescue Team, Pennsylvania State Police, the Game Commission, and the PA Fish and Boat Commission were all doing their best."  
 
Boats were launched from both the Bonnie Brae and Buckaloons boat ramps, but crews faced significant challenges. "There was anywhere from 10 to 50 feet of ice in some areas, and the current was moving fast, making it difficult for crews to navigate the river safely," Mack added.  
 
Due to unsafe conditions, the search was called off at 7:00 p.m. Tuesday night. The operation has now shifted to a recovery mission.  
 
Authorities have not released the identity of the missing kayaker as the investigation and recovery is ongoing.