STARVED ROCK, IL – An afternoon kayaking excursion turned into a harrowing ordeal for three visitors from Chicago as their kayak capsized in the Illinois River near the Starved Rock Yacht Club on Saturday.
According to Conservation Police, it happened around 4 p.m. when a sudden wave or gust of wind caused the kayak to overturn, throwing the occupants into the frigid waters. Another person who rushed to their aid also ended up in the river. Fortunately, the crew of the “Daniel P. MeClenborg” motor vessel came to their rescue and transported them for medical treatment.
The names of the victims were not released. Authorities confirmed alcohol is not suspected to have played a role in the incident. No word on how long the victims were in the water.