NEWBURYPORT — Search and rescue operations for a person reported in the Merrimack River early Wednesday have been suspended for the night.
According to a joint statement from City Marshal Matthew Simons and Fire Chief Stephen H. Bradbury III, at approximately 8 a.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025, Newburyport police and fire were dispatched to the Merrimack River after witnesses reported seeing a person clinging to the side of a small skiff.
First responders later located the skiff drifting in the water, but the occupant was missing.
Search efforts throughout the day involved boats equipped with side-scan sonar, drones, and helicopters.
Agencies assisting in the operation included the Newburyport police and fire departments, Massachusetts State Police Dive Team and Airwing, Massachusetts Environmental Police, Massachusetts Department of Fire Services Rehab Unit, Amesbury Fire Department, Salisbury Fire Department Drone Unit, Merrimac Police Drone Unit, U.S. Coast Guard, Atlantic Ambulance, and Beverly Fire Department Dive Team.
Divers searched the area but were unable to locate the missing person, City Marshal Simons and Chief Bradbury said.
Search operations are scheduled to resume at 9 a.m. on Thursday, Dec. 4.
