In the small community of Emmonak, Alaska, a young man's life took an unforeseen turn on a summer day in June of 2018. On June 13th, 23-year-old Dennis Westlock, a male resident of Emmonak, was boating on the Yukon River with a friend. It was on this day that their boat tragically struck a submerged log, catapulting both individuals into the cold Alaskan waters.
While his friend was rescued by a passing boater and treated for hypothermia, Dennis, who was not wearing a life vest, could not be located in the immediate aftermath. At the time of his disappearance, Dennis was wearing a grey sweater adorned with gold stars in the shape of the Big Dipper, blue jeans, light-duty bright orange rain pants, and brown Xtratuf boots.
Dennis was a graduate of Emmonak School, class of 2013, and was known to work as a processor at a fish plant. In the off-season, he embraced a subsistence lifestyle, which included trapping, logging, hunting, fishing, and gathering berries. He was a beloved son, brother, and friend within his community. He was also a father, having relocated to Mountain Village to be with his girlfriend and their young daughter. Those who knew him recall his skills in fixing bikes and snow machines, and his love for playing basketball.
The disappearance of Dennis Westlock prompted search efforts, but tragically, he was never found and is presumed to have drowned in the Yukon River. The Alaska State Troopers investigated the incident and stated that alcohol was not a contributing factor in the boating accident. The official search for Dennis was eventually called off. The case serves as a somber reminder of the unforgiving nature of the Alaskan wilderness and the profound loss experienced by his family and community. His disappearance remains a painful memory for those who knew and loved him, a young man full of life, whose future was abruptly cut short by a tragic accident on the water.Last Seen: Jun 13, 2018
