Chicopee Kayaker Found Dead After Two-Week Search

Niklas Delisle, a 27-year-old kayaker from Chicopee, was found deceased in the Connecticut River near Holyoke after nearly two weeks of searching. Delisle went missing on May 19 when the kayak he and his girlfriend, Mya Ballard, were in capsized; Ballard was rescued by a passerby and later hospitalized. Authorities highlighted the river's dangerously strong currents, which posed severe risks even for skilled swimmers. The extensive search involved multiple agencies using boats, sonar, and dive teams. Hampden District Attorney Anthony Gulluni offered condolences to Delisle's family and commended the professionalism of all involved as the investigation continues. The community has shown support for Delisle's family through a GoFundMe campaign to assist with funeral expenses.