Two fire department divers and the kayaker they were trying to rescue drowned Sunday in Slippery Rock Creek at McConnell’s Mill State Park.

The 23-year-old Boyers kayaker struck a submerged log, flipping his kayak, state police said. The kayaker, whose name was not released, became trapped underwater by a fast current.

Anthony Murdick and Scott Wilson, both 25 of Butler, divers with Unionville Volunteer Fire Department, drowned trying to save the man. Their bodies were recovered about a half-mile downstream, police said.

They had been diving for about five years, said Mark Lauer, Unionville fire chief. "Both of them were experienced firefighters, divers."

Lauer said it was unclear what caused the divers’ difficulties.

"The creek was high and fast," he said.

The kayaker’s body had not been recovered this morning.

The events began unfolding at about 6 p.m. in Slippery Rock Township, when the kayaker struck a log. Another kayaker left the water to alert officials.

The divers went into the water at about 8 p.m. to recover the kayaker’s body, police said.

Attempts to pull the divers out with safety ropes failed, Lauer said.

"It brings the department together, even though it tears you up," Lauer said.

Lauer said efforts to recover the kayaker’s body would continue today.