DNR: Body of Plymouth kayaker missing since May 12 found offshore in Detroit River

The body of a missing Plymouth man, who was last seen on Belle Isle on May 10, was located early Sunday in the Detroit River, said the Michigan Department of Natural Resources on Tuesday.

The body of James Kuntz, 63, was recovered Sunday morning by the U.S. Coast Guard, offshore of Fighting Island in the Detroit River, about 9 miles south of the Detroit Yacht Club on the island, DNR officials said in a news release.

Kuntz was reported missing with his red kayak on May 12, two days after he was last seen wearing a Hawaiian shirt at the yacht club, the DNR said.

Local, state and federal law enforcement agencies worked alongside emergency responders in ground, water and air search efforts for Kuntz, according to the release.

Petty Officer Jessica Fontenette told The Detroit News last week that one of the U.S. Coast Guard’s helicopters was flying over the river while returning from a case, when a crew spotted Kuntz’s kayak near Clay Township, nearly 49 miles northeast of the yacht club.

“This is never how we want to conclude a search, but we hope the recovery of this man’s body can bring closure to his family and friends,” said Lt. Todd Szyska, DNR law enforcement supervisor in Detroit.

Michigan State Police, Detroit police and the U.S. Coast Guard assisted in the search.

The cause of death will be determined by the Wayne County Medical Examiner, the DNR said.

“DNR Law Enforcement Division officers remind boaters to safely enjoy the waters, while remaining prepared with lifejackets, emergency equipment, a boating plan and always boating sober,” the release said.