A West Point cadet visiting Fort Lauderdale for spring break was found dead after an apparent drowning, authorities confirmed. Havin Morris, a 21-year-old from Pleasanton, California, was discovered in the New River late Monday night, days after he went missing during the weekend festivities.
According to the Local 10 News, the Fort Lauderdale Police Department found no signs of foul play, and Morris's death is being treated as an accidental drowning. The Police department's divers retrieved Morris's body in the vicinity of the 200 block of Southwest Second Street, the same area he was last reported seen alive Saturday night.
Morris was described as a valued member of the Corps of Cadets at the U.S. Military Academy. "Cadet Morris was a valued member of the Corps of Cadets, committed to serving his country as an Army Officer," West Point Superintendent Lt. Gen. Steve Gilland said in a statement, as reported by NBC Miami. West Point officials extended their condolences to the grieving family and are offering support during this difficult time.
Before the tragic discovery, the Fort Lauderdale Police led an urgent search, utilizing social media to spread the word of Morris's disappearance. He was last seen wearing a blue polo and khaki pants, standing at 5 feet 7 inches, and weighing around 175 pounds, according to Hoodline. The community and police combined their efforts in a race against time, but ultimately, the search ended in heartbreak as Morris was found deceased.
The investigation is ongoing, though police maintain that all evidence points to an accidental incident. West Point's statement also praised Morris for his determination and resilience, as recounted by his tactical officer Major Rebecca A. Gogue. "He was a bright, resilient young man with a determination to succeed in all he did," the academy relayed. The loss of Cadet Morris is deeply felt across the West Point community, as they mourn the loss of a future Army officer and valued colleague.
