Four teenagers from Moody were found safe early Monday morning (June 9) after being reported missing near the Cahaba River. The group was last seen floating down the river in an inflatable pool around 6 p.m. on Sunday (June 8) near the Grants Mill boat launch. When their floatation device began to fail, the teens abandoned the pool and attempted to find their way to safety by following the creek bank, but they became lost in the process.
A search helicopter spotted the teenagers at approximately 1 a.m. on Monday, several hours after they were reported missing at 9 p.m. on Sunday. The multi-agency search and rescue operation involved first responders from Leeds, Vestavia Hills, Mountain Brook, and other nearby areas. According to WBRC, all four teenagers were checked by first responders and were found to be uninjured.
The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of proper safety measures when enjoying outdoor activities. Irondale Police emphasized the need for adequate safety equipment and suggested using a waterproof case for cell phones to ensure communication in emergencies. Authorities encourage preparedness to prevent similar situations in the future.
The families of the teenagers received support from the Church of the Highlands while the search was ongoing. The successful rescue highlights the dedication and coordination of multiple agencies working together to ensure the safety of the community.