Search on Lough Erne for missing jet skier is suspended
A MAJOR search operation was launched yesterday after a man was reported missing in Co Fermanagh’s Lough Erne following an incident involving a jet ski.
A second man was rescued from the water.
The incident happened in the waters of Lower Lough Erne at Muckross Bay, where there is a public slipway and jetty.
Locals said they believed the missing man was visiting the area from the North Down area.
RNLI said last night: “Both Enniskillen RNLI and Carrybridge RNLI were requested to launch their inshore lifeboats and rescue water craft at approximately 5.30pm following reports of a person in the water, off a jet ski in the area of Muckross Bay.
“Enniskillen RNLI was already on the lough at the time having responded to a separate call out. The first person was swimming to shore when rescued by a boat that was passing by.
“The search is ongoing for a second person.
“The PSNI boat and the Irish Coast Guard helicopter Rescue 118 from Sligo are also involved in the air and water operation with the Fire and Rescue Service and Mountain Rescue involved from the shore.”
But as dusk fell, the search for the missing jet skier was wound down.
Fermanagh and South Tyrone MLA Rosemary Barton said: “As this tragic news is breaking, my thoughts and prayers are with the family of the person still missing and also I wish the second person who was injured a full recovery.”
DUP councillor Raymond Farrell said: “My thoughts are with the friends and family of the missing man.
“I hope he will found safe and well soon.”
He sounded a warning note to holidaymakers and urged lake users to take care on the water.
“Over the year there have been several tragedies on the lakes, though few in recent years.
“While our lakes are very beautiful, and we love to see people coming to enjoy them, they also have their dangers,” he said.