The disappearance of 16-year-old Kiely Rodni from a Northern California campground sent shockwaves across the nation. After weeks of agonizing uncertainty, a glimmer of hope emerged from the depths of Prosser Creek Reservoir – Kiely’s submerged SUV, found by a dedicated volunteer search team. But how did they succeed where others had fallen short? Join us as we delve into the gripping story of Adventures With Purpose, a group armed with cutting-edge sonar technology and an unwavering commitment to bringing closure to families of missing persons.
Adventures With Purpose: Answering the Call
Doug Bishop and Nick Wren, members of Adventures With Purpose, received countless pleas for help from their vast online community. News of Kiely’s disappearance had captivated millions, and the team felt compelled to offer their unique expertise. “We are simply a vessel of the community,” says Bishop, highlighting the immense public support that fuels their endeavors. The Placer County Sheriff’s Department, receptive to their assistance, welcomed the team’s specialized skills, particularly in underwater vehicle detection.
A Different Approach to Sonar Technology
While law enforcement agencies conduct underwater searches, Adventures With Purpose specializes in this domain, deploying state-of-the-art Garmin sonar technology. “We work with the intricacies of finding vehicles underwater, a task that many law enforcement agencies encounter only a few times a year,” explains Bishop. Their extensive experience allows them to interpret the nuances of sonar imagery, a skill honed through countless hours of underwater exploration.
Moreover, the team emphasizes the lack of standardized sonar training for law enforcement agencies. “There are national standards for handling firearms or conducting arrests, but no such regulations exist for sonar technology,” Bishop points out. This gap in standardized training underscores the critical role of specialized groups like Adventures With Purpose.
A Breakthrough Discovery: A Vehicle Identified
Using two small, agile boats, the team embarked on their search of Prosser Creek Reservoir. Nick Wren recounts his experience: “About 30 minutes into my search, I noticed a peculiar shape on my sonar. It cast a large shadow, instantly suggesting a man-made object.” After multiple passes and careful analysis, suspicion grew, prompting him to call in Doug Bishop for a second opinion.
alt
Bishop, equally convinced, joined Wren, and together, they employed a magnet to confirm their suspicions. The unmistakable metallic clink brought the sobering realization – they had found a vehicle.
A Sombering Confirmation and a Family’s Closure
Nick Wren, outfitted with dive gear and an underwater camera, descended 14 feet to the reservoir’s murky bottom. The overturned vehicle matched the description of Kiely’s SUV. The camera lens captured the chilling image of the license plate, confirming their heartbreaking discovery.
alt
“There’s a mixture of emotions – anticipation, anxiety, and ultimately, a profound sense of sadness,” shares Wren. “We always hope for a different outcome, but finding Kiely brings some answers to her disappearance.” The team followed a strict protocol, first informing the family and then immediately notifying law enforcement.
A Legacy of Hope and a Commitment to Justice
Doug Bishop and Nick Wren embody the spirit of compassion and community service. Their dedication to utilizing their skills to provide answers for grieving families is a testament to their humanity. “We focus on the positive – bringing closure to cases and helping families find peace,” says Bishop. Adventures With Purpose continues their vital work, driven by the support of their online community and the unwavering belief that everyone deserves to be found.
This is a stark reminder of the power of community and the impact that dedicated individuals can have in the face of tragedy. While the discovery of Kiely’s vehicle marks a somber chapter, it also underscores the importance of persistence, innovation, and collaboration in the ongoing search for missing persons.