Authorities Have "Exhausted the Options" in Search for Jon Franklin, Missing in Meramec River

Authorities said they have exhausted their options in the search for a man who went missing on the Meramec River near Eureka Friday until river levels recede. 25-year-old Jon Franklin was on a float trip with friends when they noticed him missing just before rains set in that day.

"We have, along with law enforcement, exhausted the options we have at this time.     It is unfortunate, but many times in drowning cases such as these that the body is not recovered until waters recede," said Scott Barthelmass, Eureka Fire Protection District spokesperson.

"The river is up very high, and it is very dangerous to be out on it as well as near the river. There are many snags under the surface and many areas with significant under tow, plus the river is flowing fast which could mean the body could be significantly down the river."

Family, friends and community members continued their search Wednesday. Due to the dangerous conditions, volunteers with access to airplanes have begun an air search. 

Read more: Community Continues Search for Man Missing in Meramec River

Here's the latest update on the volunteer search, which was shared Tuesday night: "Until the river goes down, we have searched all of the land we can get to. Thank you to all who have been out today on foot. The waters are going down, but slowly. We will update tomorrow morning on the river levels and may ask for more searchers tomorrow afternoon. While we pause the land search, the air search is kicking into high gear. Thank you all and we will keep you updated."

Follow the Facebook group:https://www.facebook.com/FindJonFranklin