Day 10 of search for missing city employee Darrious Stephens ends; Flint River waters recede, DNR and Albany Fire boats back on the water

ALBANY, Ga. – As the quest for a missing Albany Public Works employee reaches its tenth day, first responders persist in their efforts to locate the individual.

The search for Darrious Stephens was paused over the weekend due to the rising water levels of the Flint River, making it unsafe for first responders and divers to continue their efforts.

However, on Wednesday afternoon, crews were able to resume their search as conditions improved.

Krista Monk, Albany’s Public Information Officer, stated over the phone that responders are actively searching the river and utilizing drones for aerial assistance.

When Georgia Department of Natural Resources Corporal Eric White met with the media, he confirmed that they, along with local first responders, are conducting thorough searches along the entirety of the river.

“We’re committed with the long haul for these efforts to locate Mr. Stephens. We’re diligent in our efforts. I feel that the city of Albany has left no stone unturned as far as trying to get assets in to the search areas to try and locate Mr. Stephens…” said Cpl. Eric White, GA DNR.

According to statements from first responders, it is suspected that Stephens may have fallen into the Flint River while collecting sewage water samples amid severe weather conditions. His partner, meanwhile, was reported to have been working from the truck on the day of his disappearance.

Brian Roche reporting.

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