Zachary Rutledge, 20, was rescued after he spent the night in a Georgia park without a phone or ability to call for help.

Hall County Sheriff/X

A young swimmer who went missing was found safe a day later on July 9th in Flowery Branch, Georgia. According to the Hall County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO), Zachary Rutledge, age 20, was rescued by an HCSO deputy at Burton Mill Park on Lake Lanier.

The search for Rutledge started around 8:30 p.m. on July 8th. His friends had informed authorities that they had lost track of him and were unsure if he was in the water or had left the park.

Rutledge spent the night at the park and managed to signal the patrolling deputy the next morning around 9 a.m.

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The rescue efforts involved numerous agencies, including the Georgia Department of Natural Resources and Hall County Fire Rescue, who conducted water-based searches. Additionally, the Georgia State Patrol (GSP) provided aerial support.

The HCSO informed the public through Facebook about Rutledge’s disappearance about three hours after starting the search. Efforts continued the following morning at 8:30 a.m.

A preliminary investigation revealed that Rutledge swam to an island and returned to find his friends had left the park. Without his phone, he couldn’t call for help and had to spend the night there.

When he was found, Rutledge mentioned hearing the GSP helicopters but did not know they were searching for him.

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The good news of Rutledge’s safe recovery serves as a reminder to always be cautious while swimming, especially in places like Lake Lanier. The Hall County Sheriff’s Office advises not to swim alone, to communicate clearly with fellow swimmers, and to keep track of all members in your group.

The Hall County Sheriff’s Office expressed their gratitude that Rutledge was found safe and sound.