A Fairbanks family is asking for volunteers to help search for a man who disappeared in the Chena River last month. Devon Williams-Huff reportedly disappeared after entering the Chena River near the Cushman Street Bridge on Monday, Aug. 19, nearly a month ago.
He was 26 years old, wearing gray sweatpants, a dark lightweight jacket, and white shoes. His mother, Jennifer Williams is ready to buy gasoline for boats who can help with the search.
“You know, if they have boats, we have the drags,” she said. “We just need volunteers to help drag that river.”
The family is asking for people to help for one last push before freeze up to search the Chena River. They have been searching and dragging the river off and on since Williams-Huff disappeared. His mother says witnesses reported someone fell or jumped into the river.
“They heard him, they heard a splash,” she said. “And then he was yelling for help, but it was dark and they didn't know where he was.”
For the first 10 days, searchers were assisted by Village Public Safety officers and other volunteers. But at the start of hunting season the 1st of September, the VPSOs were recalled to their villages.
Now the family needs experienced boat captains, and a truck to tow a heavy boat that has been offered.
You can call Jennifer Williams, 907-799-1320, or Sharon James, 907-799-6622.
