A somber discovery has rocked the Geelong community after a body located in the Barwon River was formally identified as missing local man Bradley Davies.
The grim find brings a heartbreaking conclusion to the extensive search for the 39-year-old who had been missing since last week, leaving family and friends devastated by the outcome.
Search Comes to Tragic End
Victoria Police confirmed the identification on Tuesday afternoon after the body was discovered in the waterway near Geelong's Queens Park Bridge earlier that morning.
The discovery was made by a member of the public around 10:30 am on Tuesday, triggering an immediate response from emergency services who quickly secured the area.
Police have indicated they do not believe the death to be suspicious, though investigations continue to determine the exact circumstances surrounding this tragic incident.
Community in Mourning
Bradley Davies was last seen in the Geelong area on Thursday, prompting growing concern among loved ones when he failed to make contact.
His disappearance sparked an extensive search effort involving police, emergency services, and concerned community members who combed areas where he was known to frequent.
The Barwon River became a focal point of the search operation as days passed without any sign of the missing man.
Local residents expressed their shock and sadness upon learning of the tragic outcome, with many taking to social media to offer condolences to Davies' family and friends.
Ongoing Investigation
While police have stated the death is not being treated as suspicious, a comprehensive investigation remains underway to piece together Davies' final movements.
A report will now be prepared for the coroner as part of standard procedure for all unexpected deaths in Victoria.
The Barwon River area where the discovery was made has seen previous tragedies, with emergency services repeatedly warning the public about the dangers of the waterway, particularly after recent rainfall and changing conditions.
Police have expressed their sympathies to Davies' family and requested privacy for them during this difficult time as they come to terms with their loss.
