News Releases

Police Investigate Drowning in Potomac River

For Immediate Release: Friday, September 14, 2012

Detectives from the Montgomery County Police - Homicide/Sex Section are investigating a drowning that occurred this afternoon near Swains Lock in Potomac.

Today, at approximately 12:44 p.m., Montgomery County Fire/Rescue (MCFR) received information from Fairfax County Fire/Rescue concerning a body in the Potomac River.  MCFR responded to the area of Swains Lock, located and recovered the body south of the Lock (near Great Falls Park), and notified Montgomery County Police.

Investigation revealed that witnesses on the Fairfax side of the Potomac River observed a male subject enter the river south of Riverbend Park in Fairfax County.  Witnesses contacted 911 upon observing the male enter the water.  The male is believed to have waded into the middle of the river and drowned after having become trapped under a rock.

At this time, the identity of the deceased person is unknown.  The body is described as that of a white male in his late teens or early 20's.

Montgomery County detectives are receiving information from Fairfax County detectives regarding the possible identity of the deceased and the circumstances surrounding the subject entering the water.  At this time, there is no indication of foul play.  The identity of the deceased will be determined by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner.

Anyone with information about this drowning is asked to contact Homicide/Sex detectives at 240-773-5070.  Callers may remain anonymous.

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Release ID: 12-214
Media Contact: mcpnews 
Categories: press-releases