Grayson, Kentucky — A four-day search for a missing 19-year-old woman has ended in tragedy after authorities recovered her body from Grayson Lake, where she disappeared during a boating outing with friends.
The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources confirmed Sunday that Marly Kinney, 19, of Ashland, was found deceased after an extensive multi-agency search involving dozens of emergency responders, specialized equipment, and volunteers.
The investigation into the circumstances surrounding her disappearance remains ongoing.
Body Found After Extensive Four-Day Search
According to the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources, Kinney’s body was located at approximately 3:45 p.m. on June 28 near Grayson Lake, which spans portions of Carter and Elliott counties.
Officials said her family was notified shortly after the recovery.
Search efforts began after authorities received a report that Kinney had not returned with a group of friends following a boating trip on June 24.
Investigators concentrated search operations on both the lake and surrounding shoreline, using an extensive range of resources throughout the four-day effort.
Massive Search Included Divers, Helicopters and Drones
Officials described the search as one of the largest coordinated recovery operations in the area.
Emergency crews deployed:
- Boats
- Dive teams
- Sonar equipment
- Helicopters
- Drones
- UTVs and ATVs
- K9 and cadaver dog teams
Game wardens from the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources led the operation while receiving assistance from multiple law enforcement agencies, first responders, and community volunteers.
Authorities said the search continued around the clock until Kinney was located.
Boating Investigation Continues
Investigators previously said Kinney was last seen during an outing aboard a rented pontoon boat at Grayson Lake Marina.
According to authorities, 23-year-old Cameron Conley reported that one of the passengers had not returned with the group after the outing.
State troopers responding to the marina later alleged they detected signs of alcohol consumption while speaking with Conley.
According to court records cited by local media, Conley admitted to drinking and agreed to take a breathalyzer test.
Investigators allege his blood alcohol concentration measured 0.137%, well above Kentucky’s legal boating limit of 0.08%.
Authorities arrested Conley and charged him with operating a boat while intoxicated.
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Court records indicate he is scheduled to appear in court in July.
Officials have not announced whether additional charges will be filed as the investigation continues.
Community Mourns Young Graduate
Following confirmation of Kinney’s death, tributes quickly appeared across social media from friends, classmates, and members of the Ashland community.
Boyd County High School, where Kinney graduated in 2024, shared a message expressing sympathy for her loved ones.
“Please keep Marly’s family, friends, and all who loved her in your thoughts and prayers. We also lift up her classmates, former teachers, and everyone grieving this heartbreaking loss.”
The message reflected the deep impact Kinney’s death has had on classmates, educators, and the wider community.
Investigation Remains Active
Authorities said the Kentucky State Medical Examiner’s Office will determine Kinney’s official cause of death.
Meanwhile, investigators continue working to establish exactly what happened during the boating trip.
Officials are asking anyone with information related to the case to contact Kentucky Fish and Wildlife Law Enforcement or the Kentucky State Police.
As the investigation moves forward, family members and friends continue mourning the loss of a young woman whose disappearance ended in heartbreaking tragedy after days of hope and searching.
What are your thoughts on boating safety and the importance of responsible operation on the water? Share your thoughts respectfully in the comments below.