UPDATE: 17-year-old Gatton Academy student recovered from Barren River

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – A 17-year-old drowning victim has been recovered after a multi-day search, according to Kentucky Fish and Wildlife public information officer Cody Fox on Sunday.

Fox says the body of the victim was found above the low head dam on Barren River in approximately 17 feet of water at 2:59 p.m.

Western Kentucky University’s director of media relations, Jace Lux, has since confirmed the victim was a student at Gatton Academy.

Lux shared the following statement on behalf of Gatton Academy:

“The Gatton Academy community has experienced a terrible tragedy. We mourn the loss of a remarkable student who was impactful and beloved within the Gatton Academy as well as his home community. We extend our deepest condolences, thoughts and prayers to the student’s family and loved ones. Gatton and WKU counselors are available to students. Gatton families and staff are also supporting our students as they navigate this difficult time.”

Kentucky Fish and Wildlife was assisted at the scene by Med Center Health EMS, Bowling Green Fire Department, Barren, Hart and Taylor County EMS.

Bowling Green Fire Department public information officer Katie McKee says BGFD worked with Barren County Rescue, Richardsville Fire Department, emergency management and the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife searching for the 17-year-old.

McKee says the department received a call around 4 p.m. on Friday to respond to the River Street bridge area.

According to McKee, three individuals were swimming, and two of the individuals turned around and noticed the 17-year-old male struggling. She says it was reported they attempted to help but were unsuccessful.

River Street has since reopened.

News 40 will continue to bring further updates as they become available.