NEWBURYPORT — City Marshal Matthew Simons and Fire Chief Stephen H. Bradbury III report that the Newburyport Police and Fire Departments have suspended today’s search and rescue operations for the missing person in the Merrimack River.
On Wednesday, Dec. 3, at about 8 a.m., Newburyport Police and Fire responded to reports of a person in the Merrimack River. According to witnesses, a person was seen clinging to the side of a small skiff boat in the river. First responders located the boat drifting in the river. Divers searched the water and had not located the missing person.
On Thursday, Dec. 4, search and rescue operations resumed.
A preliminary investigation determined that the missing man was employed by Northeast Work and Safety Boats and was scheduled to operate a safety boat for a bridge inspection job on Chain Bridge. It appears the safety boat was launched from Cashman Park, and at one point came loose from the dock. The man entered the water to retrieve the boat and was reported missing a short time later.
There is no suspicion of foul play. The man has not been recovered.
Agencies involved in the two-day search included Newburyport Fire Department, Newburyport Police Department, Newburyport Harbormaster, Massachusetts State Police Dive Team and Airwing, Massachusetts Environmental Police, Massachusetts Department of Fire Services Rehab Unit, Amesbury Fire Department, Salisbury Fire Department Drone, Merrimac Police Department Drone, U.S. Coast Guard, Atlantic Ambulance, and Beverly Fire Department Dive Team.
City Marshal Simons and Fire Chief Bradbury would like to thank their mutual aid partners for their assistance during the search. The Newburyport Police and Fire Departments would also like to thank the initial reporting witness and private citizens with boats who assisted in the initial search of the river.
“I am truly proud of the way our first responders and partner agencies came together during this difficult and traumatic incident,” said Marshal Simons. “We extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones who are grieving. The dedication and professionalism displayed in this response demonstrate the genuine care and commitment that define our community.”
No further information is available at this time.
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