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Body found in St. John River identified as missing Saint John man

Body found in St. John River identified as missing Saint John man

The man whose body was pulled from the St. John River near Grand Bay-Westfield over the weekend has been identified as Peter Hoellwarth.

The 54-year-old was last seen leaving his west Saint John home on July 8 at 10:30 p.m.

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A family spokesperson confirmed Monday morning that the body pulled from the St. John River near Grand Bay-Westfield at 7:30 a.m. on Saturday belonged to Hoellwarth.

"The individual located on Saturday morning has been confirmed to be Peter Hoellwarth," said Kim McCurdy, the family's spokesperson.

Since he went missing, the Saint John Police Force and ground search and rescue teams searched the area where Hoellwarth went missing — along with the help of more than 200 volunteers.

"[We] express our sincere thanks to the community for all the effort that everyone put in … we're very thankful for that," said Thumper McDonald, Hoellwarth's brother-in-law,

People who knew Hoellwarth said his disappearance was out of character, describing him as a dedicated family man, professional and very athletic.

No foul play

Staff Sgt. Tony Hayes with the Saint John Police Force said foul play is not suspected.

"The Saint John Police Force would like to thank everyone for their efforts during this very difficult time," Hayes said.

Over the weekend, police said the body would be sent to the local medical examiner. Police are waiting for results from the pathologist.

"The family does not wish to make any further comment at this time," said McCurdy.