CHAUTAUQUA COUNTY, NY — Tragic Discovery: Body of Missing Kayaker Casey Norene Found Along Lake Erie Shoreline

CHAUTAUQUA COUNTY, NY — The community of Westfield, New York is reeling with sorrow and disbelief after the devastating news that 23-year-old Casey Norene, who had been missing for several days, was found deceased early this morning along the shoreline of Lake Erie near Barcelona Harbor. The Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the heartbreaking discovery following an exhaustive multi-agency search and rescue operation that had gripped the region since Norene’s disappearance.

Casey, an avid kayaker and well-known member of the Westfield community, was last seen setting out alone on Lake Erie earlier this week under what were believed to be calm conditions. According to authorities, she had planned a brief solo outing from the area near Barcelona Harbor, a spot she often frequented for its tranquility and beauty. When she failed to return or make contact with family members, concern quickly mounted and a missing person’s report was filed.

The search began almost immediately and involved multiple local and state agencies, including the Chautauqua County Water Emergency Team, New York State Police, the U.S. Coast Guard, and numerous civilian volunteers. Over the past several days, air, water, and shoreline searches were conducted in hopes of locating Casey safely. The effort drew widespread community support, with residents forming search parties, sharing social media appeals, and holding vigils in prayer for her safe return.

Sadly, that hope turned to grief when a body matching Casey’s description was located by a search crew early Sunday morning near the water’s edge. Her identity was later confirmed through personal belongings and subsequent investigation by the coroner’s office. While the official cause of death has not yet been released pending autopsy, authorities have indicated there is no evidence of foul play and that the tragedy appears to be a kayaking accident likely caused by sudden wind shifts or changing lake conditions.

“This is an incredibly difficult day for everyone involved,” said Sheriff James Quattrone of the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office during a brief but emotional press briefing. “Our hearts go out to Casey’s family, her friends, and the entire community that came together in hopes of a different outcome. She was clearly loved and respected, and her loss will be deeply felt.”

Casey Norene was known throughout Westfield as a warm-hearted, adventurous young woman with a passion for the outdoors, particularly the water. A 2019 graduate of SUNY Fredonia, she had recently returned home after traveling abroad and was working with a local nonprofit that supported environmental conservation efforts. Friends describe her as “fearless, empathetic, and a light in the lives of everyone she met.”

“She was the kind of person who made you feel like you mattered, even in passing,” said longtime friend Lena Michaels, who joined in the search efforts. “This is just so hard to comprehend. She loved the lake, but she respected it too. She would’ve never taken unnecessary risks.”

As the news spread, tributes poured in across social media from classmates, coworkers, and community members. A makeshift memorial has taken shape along the lakeshore near Barcelona Harbor — flowers, handwritten notes, candles, and even a pair of hiking boots — a reflection of the impact Casey had on so many lives.

The Sheriff’s Office also extended thanks to the numerous volunteers, first responders, and partner agencies who aided in the search. “While the outcome is not what we had hoped for, the outpouring of support has been a testament to the strength and compassion of this community,” Sheriff Quattrone added.

A memorial service is being planned by Casey’s family and will be held later this week in Westfield, with further details to be announced. In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for donations to be made in Casey’s memory to local environmental and water safety organizations — causes that were close to her heart.

The sudden loss of a vibrant young life has cast a long shadow over Chautauqua County, reminding all of the power and unpredictability of nature, and the fragility of even the brightest among us.

As friends and family begin the difficult process of mourning, the memory of Casey Norene will live on — in the waves she once glided through, the trees she hiked beneath, and in the countless hearts she touched during her all-too-brief time on this earth.