Park ranger, a dad of 2, found dead in creek after boat tipped, PA officials say

A park ranger, missing after he fell from a boat, was found dead at a Pennsylvania state park, officials say.

The body of Alec Campbell, a 38-year-old park resource ranger, was located in Neshaminy Creek at Tyler State Park on Sunday, May 25, the state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources said in a news release. The search for Campbell began on Friday, May 23, and was headed by Pennsylvania State Police with the help of many local and state agencies.

“We are deeply saddened by the death of Alec Campbell, a dedicated member of our Pennsylvania state park staff,” DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn said. “I’ve spoken with his wife and family, and on behalf of all of us at DCNR, I want them to know they are in our thoughts during this incredibly difficult time.”

According to officials, Campbell was kayaking on Neshaminy Creek when his boat capsized and he went into the water, KYW reported.

Shortly after, officials launched a multi-day search, WFMZ reported

Campbell was a husband and father of two boys, friend Ryan Chudd said in a Facebook post.

“Alec was a bright and energetic light to all. A beloved husband, father, son, brother, and friend to his family and community,” according to a GoFundMe page.

The Bucks County coroner’s office is working to determine the time and cause of Campbell’s death, officials say.

Gov. Josh Shapiro ordered flags to be flown at half-staff across the state on Tuesday, May 27, in honor of Campbell, he said in a Facebook post.

“As I told his wife Rena, we are eternally grateful for Alec’s service to his Commonwealth. May his memory be a blessing,” Shapiro said.

Tyler State Park is a roughly 30-mile drive northeast from Philadelphia. It is closed but will reopen on Tuesday, officials said.

This story was originally published May 26, 2025 at 11:44 AM with the headline "Park ranger, a dad of 2, found dead in creek after boat tipped, PA officials say."