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Recovery crews find remains of missing teen swimmer

Published  June 22, 2017 1:46pm EDT
U.S.
FOX 29 Philadelphia

HAMILTON TOWNSHIP, N.J. (WTXF) - The search for a 17-year-old taking part in an end-of-school swimming celebration is over.

The Hamilton Police Division says New Jersey State Police found the body of Marty Barchue, 17 of Hamilton, Thursday morning, "not far" from where he was last seen. That was at about 8:30 a.m.

Police in the Mercer County township had said four friends were swimming in Rowan Lake, which is part of John A. Roebling Memorial Park.

It was at about 5 p.m. Wednesday -- after a storm when the water was rough -- that excitement turned to panic.

One boy said he tried to grab Barchue couldn't swim, but he got pulled underwater by a strong current.

Fire crews combed the marsh that leads to the Delaware River, New Jersey State Police searched by air, and dive teams went in.

After four hours, the search became a recovery mission, and that got called off at dark.

FOX 29's Jennifer Joyce reported the search resumed Thursday morning. That's when SKYFOX saw New Jersey State Police troopers searching the water.

Thursday, grief counselors are at all Hamilton Township school campuses to help friends and classmates, despite there being no classes.

Hamilton Township Mayor Kelly Yaede put out this statement: "During what had been an extremely difficult week for our community, this second tragedy has caused our residents - and especially our town's children and young adults -- additional heartache.

"Our entire community sends our sympathies and our prayers to the family, friends and fellow classmates who are grieving during this painful moment from a life that we lost far too early.

"While the events of this week have challenged us all, our community is comprised of compassionate citizens who illustrate their very best by being there for others in times of need. This week is certainly one of those times.

"As difficult as the coming days will be, I am confident that our community will pull together a bit tighter, remain stronger for each other and show our fellow neighbors even greater compassion as we continue to grieve together.

I want to take a moment to thank all of the first responders who worked tirelessly in the ensuing search and rescue effort. Our community is very fortunate to benefit from their dedication, service and courage."