Missing kayaker found at work as river search under way

CLAYTON, NC (AP) — A kayaker missing on a North Carolina river is safe after authorities say he showed up for work.

Multiple media organizations report that officials in Johnston County say their search for 26-year-old Isaac Evans ended early Sunday when police found him at work two counties and 35 miles away. He told police he didn’t realize a large search for him was under way.

Town of Clayton spokeswoman Stacy Beard says alcohol was involved in Saturday’s Neuse River mishap. Volunteer firefighters, sheriff’s deputies and a Highway Patrol search helicopter searched the river until early Sunday.

Evans was kayaking with friends when their canoe hit a log and overturned. Everyone else was pulled ashore by rescuers. Evans pulled off the river and slept at a friend’s house.

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