State and local authorities are searching for a woman who was last seen swimming early Monday morning in the waters of Tesnatee Creek in White County.
The White County Sheriff's Office responded to a call for help at 6 a.m. on Sandy Flats Road and Dugas Road near the White-Lumpkin County line. A witness told authorities Belinda Butterfield, 34, of Canton was swimming in the creek when she was last seen. At the time, she was wearing white shorts and a pink top. The creek flows into the Chestatee River.
Investigators from both the White County Sheriff's Office and the Lumpkin County Sheriff's Office began a search for Butterfield. They also called the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to assist.
DNR officials have continued helicopter searches for Butterfield.
Authorities said they are hoping Butterfield was able to get out of the water and simply may be lost in the area.
Anyone who has information is asked to contact Inv. Chad Edwards with the White County Sheriff’s Office at 706-865-5177 ext. 251 or by email at [email protected] or Lumpkin County Sheriff’s Office Inv. Aaron Norrell at 706-482-2631 or by email at [email protected]..
