Country music star and lead singer of the band Backroad Anthem, Craig Strickland, is still missing after he and friend Chase Morland went on a hunting trip last Sunday. The two faced fierce winter storms to hunt ducks in Oklahoma. Morland even posted a tweet making light of their situation, calling the weather “Winter Storm Goliath”, and beginning the tweet with “in case we don’t come back”.
The search for the bandmates began when their boat was found capsized on Kaw Lake, near Tulsa. Morland was later found dead, but authorities have not located Strickland. Strickland had brought his dog, Sam, who was found alive guarding Morland’s body. Helen Strickland, Craig’s wife, shared the news over Twitter. Band member Toby Freeman spoke to People about the tragic situation, telling them that finding Sam alive was “a very good sign” and that it was “a piece of hope” he and other loved ones are able to cling to.
While the search was initially called off early Monday due to inclement weather and poor lighting conditions, it continued Tuesday. As of Thursday, law enforcement began to focus their search and rescue to the area surrounding Kaw Lake. This move has also given hope to friends and family. Helen said that, “to see how much more work can be done in a specific area…has given us a lot of rest because we feel like that’ll give us a lot of hope they will find Craig soon”.
In addition, as of today (Saturday January 2), the search will include two more search canines, a helicopter, and multiple side scan sonars. Helen remains hopeful, and recently posted a photo of her and her friends while thanking them for supporting her.
A photo posted by Helen Wisner Strickland (@helenelizabethstrickland) on
Helen also praised the Kay County Sheriff’s Department, saying they have been “wonderful”, and said that the Oklahoma Highway Patrol have gone “above and beyond”, which “is the most comforting thing you can have”.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to all friends, family members, and love ones affected.
Author
