KEARNY, N.J. (1010 WINS) — A New Jersey man reported missing earlier this month was found in his vehicle, submerged in the Passaic River, Kearny Police announced on Tuesday.
An investigation was launched when Brian Kolakowski, 37 of North Arlington, was reported missing to the North Arlington Police Department on Dec. 4.
On Dec. 6, Kearny Police Department Detective Kyle Plaugic was conducting a search of security camera footage when he discovered that at 4:29 a.m. on Dec. 4, the Volkswagen Jetta owned by Kolakowski entered the Passaic River via the boat ramp at the Frank Vincent Marina, prompting immediate recovery efforts, officials said.
Police drones were utilized to survey the river, spotting the vehicle which had drifted south from the Frank Vincent Marina, overturned, then ultimately sank, authorities said.
The depth and positioning of the vehicle, compounded by adverse weather conditions and poor underwater visibility, complicated the recovery efforts, which spanned over several days.
The vehicle and its sole occupant, confirmed to be Kolakowski, were recovered on Tuesday, Dec. 10, by the New Jersey State Police Marine Services Unit, divers from the New Jersey State Police TEAMS, and the assistance of Moran Towing.
Kolakowski was pronounced dead at the scene.
Any persons with information pertinent to this case are asked to contact the North Arlington Police Department Detective Bureau at (201) 991-4400.