Boating Search efforts continue in eastern Kentucky after 19-year-old Marly Kinney disappeared during a lake outing while authorities charged the boat’s operator with boating under the influence.
Kinney, an Ashland, Kentucky, resident, was last seen during the afternoon of June 24 at Grayson Lake, which spans Carter and Elliott counties. Officials said the incident prompted an immediate response from emergency personnel after reports that a passenger could not be located.
Authorities said 23-year-old Cameron Conley arrived at a marina and informed staff that he could no longer find a woman who had been aboard his boat. Marina personnel alerted emergency responders, who quickly began searching the area.
State troopers responding to the scene reported detecting the odor of alcohol on Conley. They also observed bloodshot eyes and questioned whether he had consumed alcohol while operating the boat.
According to investigators, Conley admitted he had been drinking and agreed to take a breath test. Authorities alleged the test measured his blood alcohol concentration at 0.137%, exceeding Kentucky’s legal boating limit of 0.08%.
Troopers arrested Conley later that afternoon and charged him with one count of operating a boat or watercraft while intoxicated or under the influence. Officials later released him from the Carter County Detention Center the same day. Court records indicate he is scheduled to appear in court in July.
Meanwhile, the Boating Search remains active as multiple agencies coordinate efforts to locate Kinney. Search teams include game wardens with the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources, Kentucky State Police, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Kentucky State Parks rangers, and several local sheriff’s offices and fire departments.
Officials said crews continue focusing their operations primarily on the water. Resources deployed include boats, drones, specially trained K9 teams, and aerial support provided by Kentucky State Police.
Kinney’s family expressed appreciation for the extensive assistance received from first responders, volunteers, and community members participating in the search. They said they remain hopeful that search teams will locate her and safely return her to loved ones.
Family members also thanked law enforcement officers, rescue personnel, and volunteers for their continued commitment during the ongoing operation. They described the community response as overwhelming and said they were grateful for everyone dedicating time and resources to the effort.
Authorities have not released additional details regarding the circumstances surrounding Kinney’s disappearance. Investigators continue gathering information while search operations remain underway.
Officials are asking anyone with information that could assist investigators to contact emergency services immediately by calling 911.
The Boating Search continues as authorities pursue every available lead and maintain coordinated operations across Grayson Lake. Investigators have not announced any new developments regarding Kinney’s whereabouts while the search remains ongoing.
