Rock Cut State Park Closed to Public Due to Ongoing Emergency Response
ICARO Media Group
Rock Cut State Park in Winnebago County, Illinois has been closed to the public due to a significant emergency response presence, according to reports. Eyewitnesses have observed a large number of first responders, including ambulances and fire trucks, stationed on the park's property.
Law enforcement officials confirm that they are still searching for a missing 31-year-old man, believed to have gone missing in the water at Rock Cut State Park. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources Conservation Police officials are leading the search efforts, while the investigation into his disappearance remains ongoing.
The closure of the park has resulted in all entrances being blocked off to visitors, with conservation officers instructing people to leave the premises. Attempts by media personnel to enter the park have been halted. Specific details about the reason for the closure and the nature of the emergency response have not yet been disclosed by authorities.
In the latest update from the Rock Cut State Park Concession, it was stated that the park would be closed moving forward, and further updates will be provided when available. However, select areas in the campground will remain closed until further notice, and boat ramps to access Pierce Lake will also remain closed, with no boat traffic allowed.
Despite the closure, the Lone Rock Café, Camp Store, and Olson Beach within the park are reported to be open with normal operating hours.
The Winnebago County Sheriff's Office has stated that the Illinois Department of National Resources will continue to handle the situation and provide further updates. It is requested that people camping at the state park remain in their designated campsites during this time.
The situation at Rock Cut State Park remains fluid, and more information is expected to be released as the investigation and emergency response continue. For urgent updates, viewers are encouraged to download the 13 WREX News App and the 13 WREX Weather Authority App.
As the search for the missing individual persists and the closure of the park remains in effect, authorities are urging the public to exercise patience and understanding.