Missing Connecticut Boy’s Body Found in Housatonic River by Boaters

This heartbreaking story out of Stratford, Connecticut, has shaken communities across the region. It’s a tough reminder of how dangerous rivers and open water can be—even when everyone’s just out to have a good time.

On Friday afternoon, civilian boaters recovered the body of a six-year-old boy who’d gone missing after falling into the Housatonic River. The incident began on August 2 at the Birdseye Boat Ramp and has left families in Stratford, Bridgeport, and beyond mourning a young life lost way too soon.

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Tragic Accident on the Housatonic River

Stratford officials said the child accidentally fell from the dock at the Birdseye Boat Ramp into the Housatonic River on August 2. Bystanders and first responders tried to save him right away, but the current was just too strong.

Witness Bob Kekacs remembered the devastating moment. He described how the boy struggled and waved for help, but the tide swept him away in maybe 15 seconds flat.

That detail really shows how unforgiving tidal waterways like the Housatonic can be. The river flows past Connecticut towns like Shelton, Derby, and Milford, and it’s not the first time it’s shown its power.

Search Efforts and Recovery

For days, police marine units from Stratford and Bridgeport searched the water. Volunteer boaters joined in, determined to help however they could.

On Friday at 2 p.m., civilian boaters spotted the boy’s body about a half-mile south of where he’d gone in, near a bend in the river.

Stratford’s Marine 1 patrol boat recovered the child and brought him back to the Birdseye Boat Ramp. Police and fire officials were there to notify the family and offer support, though honestly, what could anyone say?

Investigation and Next Steps

From the ramp, the boy’s body went to the State of Connecticut Medical Examiner’s Office in Farmington for an autopsy. Authorities from several counties have said there’s no sign of foul play—just a terrible accident, with tragic timing and conditions.

Community Reaction

The loss has hit residents from Stratford to Norwalk hard. Many families spend their summers near the water, and a lot of people are feeling this one.

A grandmother at the scene summed it up: a day meant for summer fun turned into something unthinkable. Parents in towns from Danbury to Stamford have posted condolences and reminders about water safety for kids all over social media.

Water Safety Awareness in Connecticut

This tragedy has put water safety back in the spotlight for Connecticut’s rivers, lakes, and coastline. The Housatonic runs from Massachusetts down to Long Island Sound, and sadly, accidents like this have happened before—especially where the current is strong or the water’s murky.

Officials and safety experts urge families to keep these precautions in mind when spending time near the water this summer:

Supervision: Keep kids within arm’s reach by the water, always.
Life Jackets: Make sure children and inexperienced swimmers wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved vests.
Awareness of Currents: Talk to kids about the dangers of strong currents, even if the water looks calm.
Emergency Preparedness: Learn some basic water rescue skills and CPR—it can’t hurt.
Respect Posted Warnings: Pay attention to safety signs and local advisories. They’re there for a reason.

A Call for Vigilance

Connecticut towns like Greenwich, Westport, and New London take pride in their beautiful waterfronts. Still, officials warn that these scenic spots can hide real dangers.

They say it’s crucial to stay alert and take steps to prevent tragedies like the recent one in Stratford. Sometimes, beauty and risk go hand in hand.

As the community mourns, people are coming together. They’re sharing the message that water safety really does matter for everyone.

The loss of this young boy hits hard. It’s a painful reminder that everyone—whether you’re by the quiet riverbanks in Shelton or the busy harbors in Bridgeport—shares some responsibility for safety around water.

Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the young victim during this incredibly tough time.

Here is the source article for this story: Body of missing boy in Connecticut found by civilian boaters in Housatonic River

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