Matthew Morey, an 18-year-old from the Muncie, Indiana area, remains missing after entering the rain-swollen Mississinewa River near Albany on Wednesday, August 12, 2026. Authorities suspended the search Thursday afternoon because dangerous river conditions, including rising water levels, strong currents and heavy debris, created risks for rescue crews.

The Delaware County Sheriff’s Department said four people entered the river from an iron bridge along Gregory Road northwest of Albany. Three individuals were located, but Morey was not found.

A candlelight vigil has been planned for Friday, August 14, at 8 p.m. at Union Chapel, 4622 North Broadway, Muncie, Indiana, as family, friends and community members gather to support one another.

What Happened to Matthew Morey?

According to authorities, emergency responders were called shortly after 8:30 p.m. Wednesday following reports that four people had entered the Mississinewa River.

The group reportedly entered the water from the Gregory Road bridge area. Three people were recovered, but Matthew Morey remained missing.

Search efforts continued overnight before temporarily stopping around 12:30 a.m. Thursday. Crews returned later Thursday morning to continue looking for the missing teenager.

Search for Matthew Morey Suspended

Multiple agencies joined the search operation, including:

  • Delaware County Sheriff’s Department
  • Eaton Police Department
  • Albany Police Department
  • Local fire departments
  • Indiana Department of Natural Resources
  • Indiana State Police

Search crews used boats, drones, riverbank searches and an Indiana State Police helicopter while attempting to locate Morey.

However, officials later suspended the operation because worsening river conditions made continued searching unsafe.

Chief Deputy Jeff Stanley said rising water, swift currents and debris created dangerous conditions for rescue personnel.

Officials emphasized that the search was paused for safety reasons and would continue when conditions allowed.

“We will not give up,” Stanley said, according to information provided.

Who Is Matthew Morey?

Matthew Morey was an 18-year-old connected to the Muncie, Indiana community.

He was a student-athlete at Delta High School, where he played varsity basketball. Morey wore jersey number 20 and played as a small forward and shooting guard.

He was listed as part of the Class of 2026 and had been involved with Delta High School basketball since 2021.

His disappearance has affected classmates, teammates, friends and members of the local community.

Matthew Morey Basketball Background

Detail Information
Name Matthew Morey
Age 18
Area Muncie, Indiana
School Delta High School
Graduation Class 2026
Jersey Number #20
Positions Small Forward / Shooting Guard
Incident Entered Mississinewa River
Date August 12, 2026
Location Gregory Road bridge area near Albany, Indiana
Status Missing

Candlelight Vigil for Matthew Morey

A candlelight vigil for Matthew Morey is scheduled for:

Friday, August 14, 2026
8:00 p.m.
Union Chapel
4622 North Broadway
Muncie, Indiana

The gathering will allow friends, teammates, family members and community supporters to come together, pray and show support while awaiting further updates.

Community Waits for Answers

The disappearance of Matthew Morey has created deep concern throughout the Muncie and Delaware County communities.

Friends and community members continue to hope for answers as authorities monitor river conditions and prepare to resume search operations.

At this time, Matthew Morey’s status remains missing, and officials have not released any information confirming his condition or location.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Matthew Morey still missing?

Yes. Based on the available information, Matthew Morey remains missing after entering the Mississinewa River on August 12, 2026.

What happened to Matthew Morey?

Authorities said four people entered the Mississinewa River near Albany, Indiana. Three people were found, but Morey was not located.

Why was the search suspended?

The search was suspended because dangerous river conditions, including high water levels, strong currents and debris, created safety concerns for rescue crews.

Where did Matthew Morey go to school?

Matthew Morey was associated with Delta High School and played on the school’s varsity basketball team.

When is the Matthew Morey vigil?

The candlelight vigil is scheduled for Friday, August 14, 2026, at 8 p.m. at Union Chapel in Muncie, Indiana.