Body of man found who went missing on Roanoke River
The body of a man who went missing when he fell into the Roanoke River while fishing last Sunday was recovered on Thursday morning.
Officials with the Northampton County Sheriff's Office report the body of Juan Alberto Saravia Parada, 39, was located in the river by searchers at around 11:25 a.m. Thursday. The search had been ongoing since Parada went missing on Sunday.
The man was reported missing after a family member who was fishing with him said he accidently fell into the water while trying to retrieve a fish. Officials were called to an area between Gaston and Roanoke Rapids at around 8:48 p.m. to search for Parada.
Officials with the Gaston-Fire-Rescue EMS, Roanoke Valley Rescue Squad, Roanoke Wildwood Volunteer Fire Department, Northampton County Emergency Management, NC Wildlife Resources Commission, NC State Highway Patrol, Virginia State Police, NC Sonar Search Alliance, Roanoke Rapids Police Department, Halifax County Sheriff’s Office and the Gaston Police Department assisted and aided in the search.
"This is a very unfortunate situation to have happened while fishing," Northampton County Sheriff Jack Smith said. "My condolences and prayers go out to this young man and his family. I would like to thank every surrounding agency that assisted with this search day in and day out.
"I strongly encourage anyone that is fishing or near the water to please wear safety equipment to include life jackets, as this can aid in your survival in case you fall in the water. "
