Missouri Highway Patrol says they have found the body of a canoeist missing for more than a week in Laclede County

The Missouri Highway Patrol says they have found the body of a canoeist missing for more than a week in Laclede County. Authorities today (Monday) found 54-Year old Tim Stapleton was found dead around 9:45 a.m. Monday, nearly 1.5 miles downstream from where investigators believe he initially went underwater. MSHP says the body most likely became buoyant, while a slower current also led to finding Stapleton. Divers have continuously searched the Niangua River since Memorial Day weekend. Tim Stapleton and a woman were canoeing on the Niangua River last Sunday when their canoe hit debris and tipped near Eldridge. Investigators say the woman managed to grab a tree branch, but Stapleton went under and was swept downstream.