Crews search for 2 missing boaters on Jordan Lake in Chatham County

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. (WTVD) -- A search Monday for two missing boaters on Jordan Lake was suspended shortly before 7 p.m., officials said.

On Monday, rescue crews from a number of different agencies worked from early in the morning until the evening to search for two missing boaters who presumably fell overboard the evening before during Tropical Depression Chantal.

According to the Chatham County Sheriff's Office, the two people were last seen Sunday afternoon after launching a canoe from the Martha's Chapel Road canoe access. They entered the water around 5 p.m., and their unoccupied canoe was recovered later that evening.

"We are doing everything we can to bring these individuals home," Sheriff Mike Roberson told ABC11. "Our hearts are with their loved ones during this difficult time, and we are grateful for the assistance from our neighboring agencies."

The sheriff's office has yet to release any identifying information on the persons who are missing.

Crews from the Chatham County Sheriff's Office, Lee County Emergency Management, North Chatham Fire Department, Nash County Sheriff's Office, and N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission all worked since early Monday morning.

"We appreciate the work of everyone involved in the search and the patience of the families and community members affected by this tragedy," Roberson said. "We remain committed to continuing the search efforts at first light."

Friends and family of the missing boaters were at the lake all day Monday in communication with emergency officials. At one point, a priest could be seen praying with loved ones who were hopeful for a favorable outcome.

According to a spokesperson from the sheriff's office, the search will resume Tuesday morning.

Officials urged the public to continue to avoid the area of Farrington Point Boat Ramp, 605 Farrington Point Road, Chapel Hill, while emergency crews are operating.