The body of 25-year-old Jeremiah Willey was recovered Sunday morning from the Merrimack River after authorities say he is believed to have accidentally fallen from a railroad bridge in Hooksett the night before. The fall happened near a rail span close to Riverside Street, where witnesses told police they saw Willey struggling in the water before he slipped beneath the surface. Officials say the death is not being treated as suspicious, and the investigation is still active.
Responders spent several hours scouring the river after a caller reported just before 7:15 p.m. on Saturday that someone had fallen from the bridge, according to Patch. Hooksett firefighters launched two boats while state troopers searched from the shore and on the water, and New Hampshire Fish and Game was later called in to help. Patch also reported that a video of the nighttime search, posted by News 603, circulated on social media as crews worked from the riverbank.
New Hampshire State Police told CBS Boston that Willey fell from the railroad bridge around 7 p.m. Saturday and that a witness saw him disappear under the water and not resurface. According to the agency, Fish and Game deployed boats outfitted with side-scan sonar, and divers entered the river during the search. The operation was briefly suspended Saturday night, then resumed Sunday morning. Crews found Willey’s body at about 9:15 a.m. on Sunday, state police told CBS Boston.
How recovery teams work
New Hampshire Fish and Game maintains specialized dive teams and side-scan sonar units that are frequently deployed for river searches and recoveries, which is why the agency assisted in Hooksett. As detailed by NH Fish and Game, those teams are trained to work alongside local fire departments and police when underwater operations are needed.
What officials are asking
New Hampshire State Police told CBS Boston that Willey’s death is not considered suspicious and that the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner responded to the scene. Investigators are asking anyone with information to call (603) 223-8620. Police said additional details will be released once next of kin have been fully notified. No further information was immediately available.
The Merrimack River runs through much of New Hampshire before crossing into Massachusetts and is often the site of rescue and recovery efforts because of its current and numerous crossings, according to Wikipedia. The river flows past several population centers, including nearby Manchester, a short drive from Hooksett.
Authorities say they are respecting the family’s privacy as they work to confirm the circumstances surrounding the fall. Officials have indicated that more updates will be provided as the investigation continues.
