UPDATE (7/26, 9:21 A.M.): The body of John Charles Holmes, 70, of Georgetown, who was last seen swimming in the Kennebec River yesterday, has been recovered by the Maine State Police/Marine Patrol/Warden Service Dive Team.

Marine Patrol responded to the scene yesterday with members of the dive team and began searching the area near where Holmes' boat was anchored, but suspended the search last night due to low visibility.

Marine Patrol personnel along with members of the dive team returned to the scene this morning to continue search efforts.

His body was located at approximately 8:30 am today by the dive team using a side scan sonar.

Original Story (7/26):

RICHMOND —  The Maine Marine Patrol along with members of the Maine State Police/Marine Patrol/Warden Service Dive Team, are returning to the Kennebec River near Swan Island in Richmond this morning to search for John Charles Holmes, 70, of Georgetown, who was last seen swimming in the river July 25 at approximately 3:30 p.m.

According to Marine Patrol reports, Holmes was swimming with a friend and was unable to return to their vessel, which was anchored approximately a half mile south of the town landing in Richmond.

His friend was able to return to their boat and called 911 when she witnessed him struggling in the current.

Marine Patrol responded to the scene with members of the dive team and began searching the area near the town boat launch where Holmes' boat was anchored.

They were assisted in the search yesterday by a Maine Forest Service plane, which provided search support from the air.

Marine Patrol personnel along with members of the dive team will return to the scene this morning to continue search efforts.