Victim was 25-years-old
When authorities found an abandoned kayak near one of Lake Waccamaw’s boat ramps on the afternoon of Sept. 7, rescue crews had high hopes of finding the man, identified as 25-year-old Erick Ross, alive and well. Unfortunately, they instead found his lifeless body the next day around 11:30 a.m.
About 25 agencies assisted in the search effort, including crews from the Town of Lake Waccamaw, North Carolina State Parks, the NCWRC, the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office, and others from Columbus, Brunswick, Nash, New Hanover and Union counties.
The town’s mayor issued a statement saying “our thoughts and prayers are with the family during this difficult and tragic time. We ask that everyone please respect the family’s privacy as they navigate this heartbreaking situation.”
The Town of Lake Waccamaw’s Emergency Management Director Chase Lancaster also expressed sympathies for Ross’ family, stating “On behalf of the Town of Lake Waccamaw, we extend our deepest sympathies to Erick’s family and loved ones during this difficult time. We want to thank North Carolina State Parks, the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office, the NC Wildlife Resources Commission, and all of the other responding agencies for their dedication, response and assistance throughout the search.”
Ross was a Ph. D student at Clemson University, studying mathematical sciences, and was a graduate teaching assistant at the school. ■
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