SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — The Springfield community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of 19-year-old Andrea Stawny and 17-year-old Sofie Stawny, who died following the tragic Lake Springfield incident on Sunday, June 14. The incident also involved 40-year-old Taylor Stawny, who remains missing as search efforts continue, and 12-year-old Aurelie Stawny, who was rescued from the spillway below the dam, hospitalized, and has since been released. The devastating tragedy has left family members, friends, first responders, and the entire community united in grief as the search for Taylor continues.
According to the Springfield Police Department, Andrea and Sofie were recovered following an extensive multi-day search-and-recovery operation involving local and state emergency responders. Authorities confirmed that Andrea was found on Tuesday approximately one-quarter mile downstream from the Lake Springfield dam, while Sofie was recovered near the dam on Wednesday after crews continued their intensive search efforts.
Police said approximately 40 rescuers from multiple agencies remain actively searching for Taylor Stawny. The operation has expanded across land, water, and the air, with crews utilizing boats, divers, drones, sonar equipment, and shoreline searches in hopes of locating him. Authorities have pledged to continue the search until every possible effort has been exhausted.
Officials also confirmed that 12-year-old Aurelie Stawny survived the incident after being rescued from the waters of the spillway below the dam shortly after the emergency unfolded on Sunday. She was transported to a local hospital for treatment and has since been discharged. Investigators confirmed that the family’s next of kin have been notified.
During the investigation, detectives determined that the four family members were together on the water in a kayak and two inflatable tubes that were connected at the time of the incident. Authorities continue to examine exactly how the group entered distress near the dam and what factors contributed to the tragedy.
The massive search-and-recovery effort has brought together numerous agencies, including the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Dive Team, the Springfield Fire Department, and the Springfield Police Department’s drone units. Their coordinated response has involved continuous searches both on and beneath the water, as well as aerial surveillance, demonstrating the commitment of emergency personnel to bringing answers to the family.
While investigators continue working to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the incident, many in the community are focusing on remembering Andrea and Sofie for the lives they lived rather than the tragedy that claimed them. Their sudden passing has left an immeasurable void in the hearts of those who knew and loved them.
As family members await answers and continue hoping for Taylor’s safe recovery, the outpouring of prayers, condolences, and support from the Springfield community has reflected the profound impact this heartbreaking event has had on so many.
May Andrea Stawny and Sofie Stawny be remembered for the love they shared, the lives they touched, and the memories they created with those closest to them. As the search continues for Taylor Stawny and Aurelie Stawny recovers from this unimaginable ordeal, heartfelt thoughts and prayers remain with the entire Stawny family during this time of overwhelming sorrow. May Andrea and Sofie rest in eternal peace, and may their memories forever live on in the hearts of those who loved them.
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