Search and rescue operation underway as 23-year-old man missing in Brisbane River

The young man went missing on Sunday morning after slipping into the Brisbane River during a walk with friends and family.

Queensland police are searching for a young man who slipped into the Brisbane River during a walk with friends and family on Sunday morning.

Authorities were called to Jindalee Boat Ramp, in Brisbane’s southwest, just before 5.40am following reports the man had fallen into the water and had failed to resurface.

Acting Inspector Shane Thow said the group had gathered for a “social gathering”. Picture: Lyndon Mechielsen/Courier Mail

“We do know that he was down on the pontoon with family and friends, and that he’s slipped off that pontoon,” Acting Inspector Shane Thow told reporters on Sunday.

It is understood the man was swept out very quickly by a strong current and was “not a strong swimmer”.

Watched by friends and family sat by the river anxiously. Picture: Lyndon Mechielsen/Courier Mail

Insp Thow said the group was gathering for a “social engagement” but could not confirm whether alcohol was involved in the “unfortunate incident”.

“I know that a couple of his mates tried to help him but he slipped below the waters before they got to him,” he said.

A second man in his 20s suffered shoulder injuries and was taken to Queen Elizabeth Hospital in a stable condition, Queensland Ambulance Services said.

Queensland Police are using both drones and divers to try find the man. Picture: Lyndon Mechielsen/Courier Mail

Police are using drones and divers to assist in the search, with two sets of paramedics also on standby. A marine rescue and SES team arrived by 9.45am to the boat ramp with two extra search vessels, the Courier Mail reports.

Insp Thow said “thoughts and prayers” were with the family of the young man who is understood to be a local.

“The family are obviously struggling at this point in time as well to be expected,” he said.

Police are urging witnesses or anyone with information to come forward.

More to come.