Police Recover 25-Year-Old Man from Merrimack River After Bridge Fall

The body of a missing man was pulled from the Merrimack River early Sunday. Authorities said the recovery occurred more than 12 hours after a Saturday night fall from a railroad bridge in Hooksett, New Hampshire.

Search and recovery

New Hampshire State Police led the operation at the Riverside Street site. The recovery ended just after 9 a.m. Sunday.

Crews included the Fish and Game Dive Team. Boats and drones with thermal imaging were used during the search.

State police recover efforts confirmed the victim as Jeremiah Willey, 25, of Allenstown. Officers said the incident involved a bridge fall onto the river below.

Witness and friend accounts

A witness told investigators they saw Willey struggling to stay above the water. The witness said he sank and did not resurface.

A friend, Christian Hall, spoke to Filmogaz.com about Willey’s final moments. Hall said Willey had been with a friend named Nick and that they had been drinking before Willey went under the bridge and lost his balance.

Hall described Willey as outgoing among friends but generally quiet around strangers. He said Willey preferred small gatherings.

Local safety concerns

Residents said the railroad bridge is a common gathering spot. People sometimes jump into the river there.

Jordan Glew warned about a strong current and hidden hazards below. Glew noted another structure sits beneath the bridge and could cause serious injury.

Investigation and information

Police do not consider the death suspicious, officials said. The incident remains under review.

Anyone with information is asked to contact New Hampshire State Police at 603-223-8620. Authorities continue to urge caution near the river and its crossings.