Body found in a river in West Nipissing

Ontario Provincial Police are investigating after a man’s body was found in the Upper Sturgeon River near Leduc Road last Thursday.

Ontario Provincial Police are investigating after a body was found floating in the Upper Sturgeon River in West Nipissing last week.

The discovery was made around 5:30 p.m. on June 26, the OPP said in a news release Wednesday.

Speaking with CTV News, Const. Rob Lewis confirmed that three individuals discovered the body floating near a bridge at Leduc Road.

“The investigation is in its early stages and the OPP reminds all members of the public to be aware of their personal safety at all times,” police said in the release.

“Summer months coming, a lot of people may be using the waterways. We advise people when using always be safe (and) wear lifejackets whenever you’re in a vessel, even if you know how to swim,” added Lewis.

The Nipissing West OPP crime unit is working in conjunction with the Office of the Chief Coroner for Ontario and Ontario Forensic Pathology Service to determine the cause of death.

Investigators said they are working to identify the victim, who is believed to be male.

Authorities told CTV News that the circumstances surrounding the death are not believed to be suspicious at this time – but cannot confirm that this death was drowning related at his time.

“Further updates will be provided when they become available,” police said.

With files from CTVNorthernOntario.ca journalist Amanda Hicks