Winona County authorities identify missing boater

Published 9:54 am Tuesday, November 11, 2014

DRESBACH — Winona County authorities have identified a boater who went missing on the Mississippi River in southeastern Minnesota.

Authorities on Monday resumed searching for 27-year-old Joshua Xiong of Onalaska, Wis. He left to go fishing late Saturday and went missing near Lock and Dam 7 in Dresbach. Authorities said a gas tank, life jacket and boat with significant damage were found nearby on Sunday. Authorities believe the boat went through a roller gate.

Winona County Sheriff Dave Brand said crews are using sonar equipment and dive teams are helping in the search. He said incoming snow could put the search on hold.

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Winona County will call for helicopters to search the area later this week if needed.