Troopers recover paddleboarder's body from Turnagain Arm sandbar

Alaska State Troopers recovered the body of Joshua Novakovich, 25, of Anchorage from a sandbar in Turnagain Arm on the evening of June 21, ending a multi-day search that drew the Coast Guard, volunteer rescue teams, and a trooper helicopter.

Novakovich went missing June 19 after he was swept away while paddleboarding near mile 92 of the Seward Highway. The Girdwood Volunteer Fire Department was already on scene when troopers were notified. The U.S. Coast Guard assumed the search and rescue effort but suspended operations around 3 p.m. on June 20. The case then transferred to Alaska State Troopers as a missing persons investigation.

The Alaska Mountain Rescue Group and the Alaska Dive Search, Rescue, and Recovery Team searched on June 20 and June 21. A potential sighting was reported to troopers at around 7:45 p.m. on June 21. Alaska DPS flew from Anchorage and recovered Novakovich's body. He was transported to the State Medical Examiner's Office for autopsy.

His next of kin have been notified.

Known Hazards

Turnagain Arm's bore tides, cold water, and mudflats create hazardous conditions for recreationists, according to the Alaska Department of Natural Resources. The agency warns that mudflats can trap people as the tide comes in and that strong currents and cold water pose serious risks to surfers, boaters, and spectators. The National Park Service has noted that bore tide waves can reach 6 to 10 feet and travel up to 15 miles per hour. The Alaska Mountain Rescue Group, which assisted in the search, is a volunteer organization on call around the clock to support state and federal agencies across Alaska.

The cause of death is pending autopsy results. Summer recreation season along the Seward Highway corridor brings increased paddling and swimming activity to Turnagain Arm each year.