Statement from International Baptist College regarding Grand Canyon incident
May 1, 2009

TEMPE, Ariz. – Pastor David Brock at International Baptist College in Tempe today released the following statement regarding an incident at the Grand Canyon:

"On Thursday morning, leaders at International Baptist College were informed that three individuals participating in an outing at the Grand Canyon were swept away by the Colorado River.

"National Park Service rangers with assistance from a private rafting company conducted a search and rescue operation until 7:30 pm Thursday evening. The search effort began again this morning by air, water, and land.

"The other participants on the trip have all emerged from the canyon and will be returning to Tempe today, while a team of pastors has made its way to the park.

"Because two of the missing individuals are minors and out of a desire to respect the privacy of the affected families during this difficult period, IBC will not be releasing any names at this time.

"Classes at IBC were cancelled today as faculty, staff and students gathered to pray for the missing individuals' safe return.

"This is a challenging time for the entire IBC family. We are hopeful that members of the media will direct any questions to the school's designated point of contact. We will release additional statements as new information becomes available."

About the college: International Baptist College in Tempe, Ariz. is a ministry of Tri-City Baptist Church. Founded 25 years ago by Dr. James Singleton, IBC's motto is "Mentoring into Ministry" and prepares young men and women who wish to serve in a church-related ministry.

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