A large multi-agency search operation is underway on the Merrimack River after a man went missing Wednesday morning during what authorities believe was a boating-related incident near the Chain Bridge. The individual, who has not been publicly identified, is now presumed dead after hours of unsuccessful search efforts amid challenging tidal conditions.
Witness Saw Man Clinging to Boat Before Disappearing
According to Newburyport Police, the incident unfolded around 8 a.m. on Dec. 3, when witnesses reported seeing a person clinging to the side of a small skiff on the Merrimack River during a very high incoming tide.
Moments later, the witness lost sight of the man as the boat drifted away downriver.
First responders later located the skiff drifting unmanned and tied it off at a nearby dock. The man’s vehicle was found unoccupied at the Cashman Park boat ramp, along with his backpack and gear near the water’s edge. Officials say the items appear to have been intentionally placed, and early reports suggest the man may have been a hunter working or preparing to work near the Chain Bridge
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Massive Search Effort Underway
A full-scale search and rescue (SAR) response was immediately launched from the Cashman Park ramp.
Agencies involved include:
Newburyport Police and Fire Departments
Massachusetts State Police, deploying air units and drones
U.S. Coast Guard (Station Merrimack), launching 25’ and 47’ rescue vessels
State Police Air Wing helicopter
Coast Guard helicopter
Newburyport Fire boat
Newburyport Harbormaster
Beverly Fire Department dive team
Private vessels, including Bridge Marine boats
NBPT Mobile Command Post
Multiple ground units and media crews
City Marshal Matthew Simons and Fire Chief Stephen H. Bradbury III confirmed the extensive ongoing search, emphasizing that all available assets are being used both on the water and in the air.
Challenging Conditions on the River
Authorities say the tidal conditions were particularly dangerous Wednesday morning, with a strong incoming tide creating swift currents. These conditions may have contributed to the man losing control of the skiff.
Officials added that the witness saw the man fall into the water after the skiff began to float away, leaving him clinging to its side before disappearing below the surface.
Search Continues With Grim Expectations
Though the search remains active, authorities acknowledge the likelihood of survival is increasingly low.
“We are deploying every resource we have,” officials said. “But given the time elapsed and the river conditions, this is now presumed to be a recovery effort rather than a rescue.”
Massachusetts State Police are attempting to contact the registered owner of the vehicle found at the ramp to confirm the man’s identity and rule out any possibility that he left the area by other means.
Area Closed—Public Asked to Avoid Cashman Park
The search has forced the closure of parts of Cashman Park and the surrounding waterfront. Officials are strongly urging the public to stay clear of the area while rescue units continue to operate.
As of Wednesday afternoon, no additional updates on the man’s condition have been released.
