(Wahpeton)– Another firm that specializes in using side scan sonar technology and underwater cameras has arrived on West Lake Okoboji as the search for 12-year-old Collin Helmers of Estherville continues.
It’s been nearly three weeks now since a dock barge Helmers was on along with 31-year-old Mathew Molacek of Wallingford sank off of Gull Point. Molacek’s body was recovered a few days after the accident.
Dickinson County Sheriff Greg Baloun announced Friday members of the Seth Foundation from Georgia have arrived in the lakes area to assist in the search for Collin. Baloun says they brought side scan sonar equipment similar to what Gene Ralston had while he was here, along with an underwater camera with sonar.
Baloun says contrary to rumors, their search is far from over. He vows to continue until they find Collin or the lake freezes over.
As of right now, Baloun says no more diving is being done. He says divers will be sent down only if sonar indicates there may be something there.
Baloun says he remains very impressed with all of the volunteerism that’s gone into the search.
He added there’s a possibility cadaver dogs may be brought back in this weekend.
