News Release

Kayaking Fatalities

Date: September 18, 2021
Contact: David Horne, 906-202-0117

Two kayakers were reported missing the evening of September 16th, 2021. The National Park Service, along with other federal and state agencies have responded with search and rescue operations that concluded Friday afternoon with the recovery of both victims' bodies by the United States Coast Guard (USCG) along the coast Lake Superior.  

At the time of the initial call, Lake Superior was experiencing gale force gusts of up to 35 knots and waves building to 3-5 feet, occasionally to 7 feet. The severe weather was contributing factor that led to this unfortunate outcome. 

The victims have been identified as Kimberly Aiello of Troy, Michigan and David Delegato of Shelby Township, Michigan. 

“I would like to thank all our agency partners that assisted us with the large and sustained emergency response in the face of severe overnight weather. Specifically, the United States Coast Guard aviation and water borne assets who worked tirelessly to complete their mission in support of the National Park Service. Thank you.” Chief Ranger, Joe Hughes – Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore