Vanished on the Yukon: The Disappearance of Dennis Westlock

A Life Rooted in Emmonak

Dennis Billy Westlock was born on December 29, 1994, in Bethel, Alaska, to Martha and the late Patrick Kelly Sr. He was raised by John Sr. and Annie Westlock in Emmonak, a small village situated at the mouth of the Yukon River. Dennis graduated from Emmonak School in May 2013 and worked as a processor on the F/V Golden Alaska and Seafreeze Alaska, completing four seasons. He also worked for Kwigpak Fisheries during the summer months. During his off-season, Dennis embraced a subsistence lifestyle, enjoying hunting, gathering berries, trapping, logging, and fishing. He was known for his skills in fixing bikes and snow machines and had a strong bond with his family and friends. Dennis met Christy George and relocated to Mountain Village, where he was excited to become a father to his daughter, Zoey Westlock, born on July 30, 2017.

The Fateful Day on the Yukon River

On June 13, 2018, Dennis and his friend Brandon Johnson-Edwards set out on a boating trip on the Yukon River near Emmonak. Their boat struck a submerged log, causing both men to be thrown into the water. Neither was wearing a life jacket; instead, they were sitting on them when the accident occurred. ...Read More

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