Search underway for Michael Smith missing from Heber Springs lake area

October 13, 2026 Comments 0 Danielle Okoro 1 min read

Crews are searching for Michael Smith around Cleburne County water areas during an active missing person case. Emergency responders want the public to report any sightings of the missing boater quickly.

Officials with Conway County OEM Search and Rescue said they are assisting the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. The search operation is centered near Heber Springs. Responders continue scanning local waters.

Search crews said Michael Smith was last seen on Sunday, Oct. 4. He was in the Damsite Marina area of Greers Ferry Lake. Officials with the Cleburne County Sheriff’s Office said the boat has not been found.

Smith was on the watercraft before his disappearance, according to authorities. Authorities describe Smith as 6 feet 1 inch tall and 160 pounds. He has salt and pepper hair, brown eyes and a beard.

Search and rescue units handle water searches alongside state wildlife officers. County emergency offices deploy specialized boat teams during these operations. Teams work together across jurisdictions.

Cleburne County investigators want tips. Anyone with information on the search should contact the Cleburne County Sheriff’s Office at 501-362-8143.

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Danielle Okoro

News Editor, Latest & National

Danielle runs the Wire’s breaking news desk and tracks how decisions in Washington land in Little Rock — from federal funding to the Arkansas congressional delegation. She previously worked at a wire service in Washington, D.C.