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AMSTERDAM — The body of an Amsterdam man reported missing Friday was recovered from the Mohawk River near Lock 11 on Monday morning, city police said.
The man, identified as James H. Gardner, 71, is believed to have died by drowning, city police spokesman Lt. Joseph Spencer said.
There are no signs of foul play and an autopsy is not expected to be performed.
“From the examination of Mr. Gardner’s body when he was received from the water, there were no signs of trauma or foul play or any injuries observed to him,” Spencer said Monday.
Gardner was reported missing on Friday morning after leaving his home. He was classified by police as a vulnerable adult who had suffered a traumatic brain injury.
“We would offer our condolences to the family and understand the recovery of Mr. Gardner is small consolation to the loss they are feeling,” Spencer said.
Area law enforcement conducted an extensive search of the area after Gardner was reported missing.
The search focused on the river after surveillance footage was secured that is believed to show the man entering the area of Lock 11, which is within walking distance of his home.
“That was further corroborated with the use of the search and rescue K-9 units,” Spencer said.
The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office and state police assisted search efforts on the river on Sunday and Monday. City police were present when Gardner’s body was recovered.
The investigation and recovery efforts were also assisted by the Amsterdam Fire Department, Albany County Fire Coordinator’s Office, Rotterdam Junction Fire Department and emergency management offices from Montgomery, Schoharie, and Fulton counties.
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