CARTER COUNTY, Ky. — A large-scale search continues at Grayson Lake as authorities work to locate 19-year-old Marly Kinney, who disappeared during a pontoon boat outing with friends on Wednesday, June 24. Multiple law enforcement and emergency response agencies remain involved in the operation as investigators piece together the events leading up to her disappearance.
According to the Carter County Sheriff’s Office, Kinney was reported missing at approximately 4 p.m. after she became separated from a group of friends during a day on the lake. Investigators said she had been aboard a pontoon boat with a larger group when she reportedly left the vessel near the shoreline.
Preliminary information indicates that Kinney may have stepped off the boat to use the restroom before the group departed the area. Authorities say those on board later realized she was no longer with them. Investigators have noted that those on the boat were unable to provide the exact location where she exited, making the search significantly more challenging.
Officials also confirmed that one individual associated with the boating party was arrested on suspicion of boating under the influence. Authorities have not indicated that the arrest is directly connected to Kinney’s disappearance, and investigators have not announced any evidence suggesting foul play. The case remains an active missing persons investigation.
Search efforts have expanded across Grayson Lake, with crews using helicopters, drones equipped with thermal imaging, sonar-equipped boats, dive teams, K-9 units, ATVs, and ground search teams to cover both the water and the heavily wooded shoreline. Investigators are also reviewing cellphone location data, photographs, videos, and witness statements to establish a more accurate timeline of Kinney’s final known movements.
Family members continue to appeal to the public for help. Relatives, including her uncle and cousin, have urged anyone who visited Grayson Lake on the afternoon of June 24 to come forward with any information, no matter how minor it may seem.
Marly Kinney is described as 19 years old, approximately 5 feet 5 inches tall and weighing around 125 pounds. She has black hair and brown eyes and was last seen wearing a pink, orange, and white bikini.
The disappearance has generated widespread concern throughout the community, with friends and residents sharing messages of support and prayers for Kinney’s safe return. Authorities continue to ask anyone who may have seen the pontoon boat, observed Kinney near the shoreline, or has photos, videos, or other information from the area on Wednesday afternoon to contact the Carter County Sheriff’s Office immediately.
The investigation remains ongoing, and officials say additional updates will be released as new information becomes available. Meanwhile, search crews remain committed to locating Marly Kinney as her family waits for answers during an incredibly difficult time.