Local News
Search For Andruw and Wesley Cornett: Body Recovered from Thermalito Afterbay
The identity of the recovered body has not yet been confirmed, pending notification of the Cornett family.
Butte County, CA – The search for two teenage brothers who disappeared while duck hunting on December 14 has taken a tragic turn.
On Tuesday morning, a body was recovered from the Thermalito Afterbay, where the two brothers were last seen.
Andruw Cornett, 19, and Wesley Cornett, 17, vanished during a hunting trip when Wesley’s kayak capsized while he attempted to retrieve a downed duck.
Witnesses reported that Andruw, from the shore, immediately entered the frigid waters to rescue his younger brother. Despite his efforts, neither brother has been seen or heard from since.
On Tuesday at approximately 9:30 a.m., a Butte County Sheriff’s Office helicopter identified a body in the water.
However, recovery operations were briefly interrupted when an unauthorized drone flew too close to the helicopter, forcing the pilot to make an emergency landing.
The Sheriff’s Office issued a stern warning that drone interference in such operations is unlawful and may result in criminal charges.
The identity of the recovered body has not yet been confirmed, pending notification of the Cornett family.
The brothers’ disappearance occurred under difficult weather conditions. High winds and rough water created hazardous whitecaps on the afterbay, complicating their duck-hunting expedition.
Wesley’s kayak overturned as he attempted to retrieve a duck. Andruw, witnessing the incident, dialed 911 before plunging into the cold waters to assist his brother. Tragically, neither returned to shore.
The local community has been deeply impacted by the loss. Friends and family of the Cornett brothers have gathered in solidarity, hoping for closure as the search continues.
The Butte County Sheriff’s Office remains committed to the investigation and search efforts. Authorities continue to survey the area and urge the public to avoid interfering with ongoing recovery operations.
Further updates will be released as more information becomes available.
It is with profound sorrow and a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Deputy Sheriff Carl “Little Chief” Jensen, a deeply respected and dedicated member of the Little River County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputy Jensen was found deceased earlier this evening after he did not report for his scheduled shift.
Deputy Jensen was more than a colleague—he was a cherished brother in uniform, a trusted protector of the community, and a steadfast public servant whose presence will be sorely missed by all who had the privilege of working alongside him.
Carl’s journey into law enforcement was driven by a passion to protect those who could not protect themselves.
After completing college, he began his career with Adult Protective Services, investigating allegations of abuse and exploitation in state hospitals, group homes, and home health care settings.
It was during one such case—uncovering the truth behind a complex exploitation investigation—that Carl realized his calling. “I got bit by the law enforcement bug that day,” he once said. “I wanted to help protect and bring justice to those who need it.”
Throughout his career, Deputy Jensen demonstrated extraordinary empathy, integrity, and resilience. He often reflected on the emotional weight of his work, especially when responding to calls on what could be the most difficult days in people’s lives.
“Sometimes, people don’t realize that we’re there to help everyone involved,” he shared. “Even on what could be their worst day, I can do my best to make it better—or at least keep them calm.” His compassion and humanity set an example for us all.
Our deepest condolences and unwavering support go out to Deputy Jensen’s family during this incredibly painful time.
We ask the community to join us in keeping his loved ones and our department in your thoughts and prayers as we grieve this heartbreaking loss.
Deputy Carl Jensen’s legacy of service, kindness, and courage will never be forgotten.
We are grateful for his life, his dedication, and the profound impact he had on those he served and served with.