Deputies save kayaker when craft overturns in a Monroe Township quarry

7/13/2013
BLADE STAFF

MONROE -- A kayaker was rescued by Monroe County sheriff's deputies from a Monroe Township quarry around 8 p.m. Friday after his craft overturned.

Deputies were at Dunbar Quarry in response to complaints of unruly behavior by youths who gather there and cause a ruckus, according to Chief Deputy John Plath.

In the course of questioning some of the youths, deputies observed Matthew Sowards, 25, of Monroe paddling his kayak about 300 yards offshore.

The kayak overturned and an alarmed Mr. Sowards yelled for help, because he was having trouble staying afloat.

Chief deputy Plath said Deputy Michael McClain commandeered a kayak and paddled out to aid Mr. Sowards.

In the meantime, Deputies Charles Myers and Jeff Hooper used an onlooker's motorboat to aid Deputy McLain..

Chief Deputy Plath said the quick response by three deputies saved Mr. Sowards' life.

Paramedics from the Monroe Township Volunteer Fire Department checked Mr. Sowards and determined no further treatment was necessary.