Ellsworth Police Department

MAINE DEPARTMENT OF INLAND FISHERIES & WILDLIFE
353 Water St., Augusta, ME 04333 (207) 287-8000 www.mefishwildlife.com
For More Information, Please Contact:
Mark Latti, MDIFW Communications Director, 207-592-1339 (cell) [email protected]

For Immediate Release May 15, 2026
Missing Paddleboarder Located on Graham Lake

ELLSWORTH, Maine – A paddleboarder who went missing on Graham Lake ten days ago was located this evening.

Grayson Mote, age 20 of Ellsworth, had gone missing while paddleboarding on Graham Lake on Tuesday, May 5th. This evening at approximately 6:30 p.m., a member of his family who was out searching for him by boat located him deceased, approximately 2/10 of a mile from the shore of Graham Lake.

A Maine Marine Patrol officer brought him to shore, and Grayson was transported to the Office of the Maine State Medical Examiner.

Mote had been the focus of an intensive water and air search that included members of the Maine Warden Service, Ellsworth Police Department, Ellsworth Fire Department, Maine Marine Patrol, Maine state Police, the Maine Forest Service and friends and family of Grayson. The search included boats, sonar, divers, submersible drones, aircraft, and ground searchers along the shore.

Maine Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife Learn about Maine's wildlife and fisheries and how you can safely enjoy your next outdoor adventure.

Beginning Monday, May 4, 2026, crews contracted by the Maine Department of Transportation will begin soil testing/boring around the Union River Bridge as part of early preparation for future bridge repairs.

📍 Where: Lower light at State and Main Streets (Union River Bridge area)

📅 When: May 4, 2026, through approximately May 15

🕒 Hours:
• Monday–Friday: 7:00 AM setup – 8:00 AM work begins ending at 4:00 PM

🚧 What to expect:
• One-lane, alternating traffic across the bridge
• Law Enforcement on site
• Flaggers on site to safely guide traffic
• One sidewalk open for pedestrians

Drivers are encouraged to seek alternate routes if possible and to use caution when traveling through the area.

During National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, we proudly recognize the dedicated dispatchers of the City of Ellsworth, whose calm voices and sharp judgment serve as the critical first link in every emergency response. Working behind the scenes, they handle high-pressure situations with professionalism, compassion, and precision—often providing life-saving instructions while coordinating police, fire, and EMS resources in real time. Their ability to remain composed under stress, gather essential information quickly, and support both the public and first responders is nothing short of extraordinary. We also extend our appreciation to the Hancock Regional Communications Center, whose team provides seamless overnight coverage and ensures continuity of service during those critical hours. Together, their partnership reflects a shared commitment to public safety, and the City of Ellsworth is safer and stronger because of their unwavering dedication every single day.