Authorities in Springfield, Missouri are continuing a large-scale search-and-rescue operation following a tragic incident at Lake Springfield on Sunday, June 14, involving multiple members of the Stawny family. Police have released the identities of those connected to the case as recovery and search efforts remain ongoing across land, water, and air.
Andrea Stawny, 19, and Sofie Stawny, 17, were later located following extensive water recovery operations near the Lake Springfield dam. According to authorities, Andrea was recovered approximately a quarter-mile downstream from the dam, while Sofie was located near the dam area after continued coordinated search efforts involving multiple agencies.
Officials confirmed that 12-year-old Aurelie Stawny was rescued from spillway waters below the dam shortly after the incident occurred on Sunday. She was transported to a local hospital for evaluation and has since been released. Law enforcement confirmed that next of kin have been notified regarding all developments in the case.
As of the latest update, 40-year-old Taylor Stawny remains missing. Authorities stated that approximately 40 personnel from multiple agencies are actively involved in ongoing search operations. Teams are continuing to comb the surrounding waterways, shoreline areas, and downstream regions using boats, ground units, underwater dive teams, and aerial drone support.
Investigators reported that the individuals were on the water together at the time of the incident, traveling in a kayak and two inflatable tubes that were connected. This detail is currently part of the active investigation as authorities work to reconstruct the sequence of events leading up to the emergency.
Multiple agencies, including the Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) dive team, the Springfield Fire Department, and the Springfield Police Department, have been coordinating efforts. Specialized equipment has been deployed to assist with underwater visibility challenges and to expand the search area as conditions allow.
Officials emphasized that the investigation is ongoing and that no final conclusions have been made regarding how the incident unfolded. Authorities are reviewing all available evidence and witness information as they work to determine the circumstances that led to the tragedy.
As the search for Taylor Stawny continues, authorities are urging the public to avoid the affected areas to allow emergency crews to operate safely and without interruption. The operation remains active, with search teams committed to continuing efforts until all possibilities have been fully exhausted.
Community members and officials alike have expressed concern and sympathy for those impacted, as the situation continues to develop and the region awaits further updates from investigators.