NEW BEDFORD, Mass. — A New Bedford man who was reported missing late last month was found dead in New Bedford Harbor, authorities confirmed this week. The Bristol County District Attorney’s Office identified the man as Jason Vasquez, 51, whose death is now being investigated as a drowning.
According to investigators, Vasquez was last seen on Wednesday, Jan. 28. Family members and coworkers grew concerned after he failed to return home and could not be reached. His disappearance raised alarm, particularly because it was out of character for him, prompting efforts to locate him in the days that followed.
Vasquez, who worked at New Bedford Shipyard and Shoreline, was officially reported missing on Friday, Jan. 30. Police say the report was made after his boss discovered Vasquez’s car parked at his workplace. The unattended vehicle, combined with the lack of contact, led authorities to believe something may have gone wrong.
The following day, the New Bedford Police Department’s Marine Unit began searching the harbor. During the search, officers located Vasquez in the water, not far from the vessel he worked on. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The Bristol County District Attorney’s Office confirmed the discovery in a statement released on Thursday, Feb. 5.
The Massachusetts State Police Detective Unit, assigned to the Bristol County District Attorney’s Office, is leading the investigation alongside the New Bedford Police Department. At this time, officials say the death is being investigated as a drowning. Authorities have not released information about what may have led to Vasquez entering the water, and no foul play has been announced.
Vasquez’s death has left coworkers and members of the tight-knit waterfront community shaken. Investigators say the case remains active as they work to determine the full circumstances surrounding his death. Officials have not said when additional details, including autopsy findings, may be released. Anyone with information related to the case is encouraged to contact local authorities as the investigation continues.
