A body discovered in the River Dart on Friday, January 17, has been formally identified as 79-year-old David Evans, who was reported missing from Dartmouth on Friday, December 20.

Devon and Cornwall Police have confirmed that David’s family has been informed, and a file will now be prepared for the coroner.

Mr. Evans had been the subject of a missing person appeal after concerns were raised for his welfare. His disappearance had prompted extensive searches in the area, involving police, volunteers, and rescue teams.

No further details have been released regarding the circumstances of his death. Authorities have not indicated any suspicion of foul play at this stage.

A spokesperson for Devon and Cornwall Police said:

“We can confirm that the body recovered from the River Dart on January 17 has been formally identified as 79-year-old David Evans, who had been reported missing from Dartmouth on December 20. His family has been informed, and our thoughts are with them at this difficult time. A file will now be prepared for the coroner.”

Local residents expressed their condolences, with many in the Dartmouth community having followed the search efforts closely.

A coroner’s inquest is expected to determine the cause of death in due course.