Alec Campbell, a 38-year-old Pennsylvania park ranger, was reportedly found dead on May 25, two days after he went missing
Campbell disappeared on May 23 after his kayak capsized in the Neshaminy Creek in Tyler State Park, according to reports
The late park ranger leaves behind a wife and two sons, a GoFundMe campaign said
A Pennsylvania park ranger who disappeared while kayaking has been found dead.
Alec Campbell, 38, went missing on Friday, May 23, after his kayak capsized in the Neshaminy Creek in Tyler State Park, according to ABC affiliates WHTM and WNEP.
Authorities said on Sunday, May 25, that his body was recovered, WNEP and FOX affiliate WTXF-TV reported.
The Bucks County Coroner’s Office will determine Campbell’s official cause of death, according to the reports.
Campbell leaves behind his wife, Rena, and two sons, 8-year-old Calder and 5-year-old Miles, according to a GoFundMe campaign started to support his family.
“Alec was a bright and energetic light to all,” wrote Haley Richter, who organized the online fundraiser. She called the park resource ranger “a beloved husband, father, son, brother, and friend to his family and community.”
Ryan Andrew Chudd, who described himself in a Facebook post as a close friend of Campbell’s, said the late park ranger was “a tremendous outdoorsman, smart, clever, kind, and radiant.”
“He’d be bummed that the park was closed this weekend while they search for him. So please, enjoy the outdoors where you can with your friends and family,” Chudd said in the post on the “Bucks County Disc Golf Alliance Discussions” Facebook group.
In a statement, Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn described Campbell as “a dedicated member of our Pennsylvania state park staff.”
“I’ve spoken with his wife and family, and on behalf of all of us at DCNR, I want them to know they are in our thoughts during this incredibly difficult time,” she said.
“Every day, state park employees play a vital role in welcoming visitors, protecting natural spaces, and ensuring the safety of all who enjoy Pennsylvania’s beautiful park,” the secretary added. “Alec’s commitment and passion touched many lives and his loss is felt deeply across our entire community.”
The department did not immediately respond to PEOPLE’s request for comment.
Gov. Josh Shapiro said in a statement on X that he has ordered flags in Pennsylvania to fly at half-staff on Tuesday, May 27, in Campbell’s honor.
“Lori and I are praying for the family and friends of Alec Campbell,” the governor said. He later added, “As I told his wife Rena, we are eternally grateful for Alec’s service to his Commonwealth. May his memory be a blessing.”
Tyler State Park will remain closed on Monday, May 26, and reopen on Tuesday, according to WHTM and WNEP.
More than $21,000 has been raised through the GoFundMe campaign, which aims to “raise college funds and savings accounts” for Campbell’s sons.