Overview
- Three children were swept into the rain-swollen Passaic River near Pulaski Park on Wednesday night after heavy rainfall created fast currents and submerged drop-offs.
- Divers recovered the body of a 10-year-old boy late Wednesday night, and an 11-year-old girl who escaped told officials her brother may have pushed her toward rocks and helped save her.
- More than two dozen marine units from local, county and state agencies used boats, dive teams, sonar and drones in an extended search that shifted from rescue to recovery because of darkness, tides and strong currents.
- On Friday evening crews found a body under the Market Street Bridge that officials say matches the description of the missing 10-year-old girl, and authorities continue to coordinate investigations and family support.
- Local leaders urged residents to avoid entering the river, highlighted the heightened dangers from recent storms, and said the incident will likely prompt renewed focus on river safety and emergency response procedures.