COOPERSVILLE, Mich. — Volunteers spent Thursday searching for 18-year-old Hunter Klompstra, who went missing early Wednesday morning. He was last seen leaving a New Year's Eve Party in Polkton Township.
More than 100 people came out to help law enforcement and other agencies in the search efforts.
"I know this area better than anybody, and I knew I could probably be of help to look," said Dave Hastings, who spent the day searching for the teen.
Hastings focused on the land he hunts on, specifically near Deer Creek.
"I was worried that he might try to cross that creek, and the creek is very deep and very fast right now," said Hastings.
Officials began searching the area on Wednesday evening. Since then, they have used a helicoptor, K-9's, drones, robots and boats to search for Klompstra.
"We're trying to do some tracking based upon devices and cell phones to see where he may have gone. That's all in progress right now," said Cpt. Mark Bennett with the Ottawa County Sheriff's Office.
Volunteers met at the Gull Lake Marine in Coopersville prior to setting out for the searches. On foot, different groups covered well over 36 square miles in and around Coopersville.
So many volunteers showed up to the staging area at the Marine that many were turned away from participating in the search.
"I know the family is very appreciative," said Cpt. Bennett. "We really appluad their willingness to help, and I know that a lot of people know Hunter and want to be involved, but it's at the point now where being able to effectively manage those resources becomes a little cumbersome when you have many more than you need."
Officials had to put efforts on hold for the night but will resume the search on Friday.
