Niagara Falls, N.Y. (WBEN) - The body of a male victim was recovered from the upper rapids near the brink of Niagara Falls slightly more than 10 hours after his vehicle went into the swirling waters.
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New York State Parks Police Major James Hy confirmed to WBEN on Tuesday the body was recovered in the early hours Monday, not far from where his Jeep was discovered earlier in the day.
"I can confirm the body was recovered," Hy said.
The body was sent to the Niagara County Coroner's Office as the investigation continues.
While declining to identify the victim, Hy did confirm he was "from this area."
Preliminary investigative work indicates only the driver was the sole occupant in the Jeep.
The incident began at around 9:15 a.m. Monday when several joggers and walkers near the bird overlook along the Niagara Scenic Parkway reported seeing a vehicle drive into the water. There were unconfirmed reports that the male driver attempted to swim to shore but the power of the upper rapids allegedly overwhelmed the victim.
Hy could not confirm that report.
The driver's Jeep was found around 10:49 a.m. about 50 feet off shore, and not far from the bird overlook.
Divers from the New York State Parks Marine Unit and their counterparts from the New York State Police found the vehicle and victim's body utilizing high tech underwater technology.
The investigation into the incident continues.