A huge emergency services operation is underway after police received reports of a ‘kayaker in distress’
A huge emergency services operation is underway following reports of a “kayaker in distress” on a Devon river.
The incident is unfolding on the River Exe in Tiverton, where police, fire and ambulance crews have parked up since around 4pm on Saturday afternoon. Witnesses told DevonLive they saw multiple search and rescue teams in the area, as well as a police helicopter circling overhead.
Devon and Cornwall Police have issued an urgent public appeal to residents in the Tiverton area after receiving reports of an “unidentified kayaker in distress” on the River Exe.
Footage from the scene appears to show at least 17 emergency services vehicles, including ambulances, police vehicles and fire engines, according to DevonLive.
In a statement, the force said: “Police are asking for the public’s help following reports of an unidentified kayaker believed to be in distress on the River Exe in the Tiverton area. At this time we are seeking any information that may assist, including:
- Meeting points or launch locations
- Times and locations of anyone kayaking on the River Exe today
- Any other relevant details, no matter how small they seem.
“If you have any information that could help, please contact police immediately, quoting log: DCP-20260124-0511.”
