VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY) – Virginia Beach Police have confirmed the body found inside the vehicle that went off the edge of the 14th Street Fishing Pier is the same individual who had been reported missing by family members.
According to police, the Medical Examiner confirmed the individual who drove off the pier the morning of Jan. 27 is a 57-year-old Virginia Beach man. The vehicle, which was recovered by Crofton Industries almost a week later, was confirmed to be a red Nissan Kicks.
Virginia Beach Police confirmed on Monday that they do not plan on releasing the man’s name, stating the incident “appears to have been a deliberate act.”
The investigation determined there was no evidence of anything criminal prior to the person driving off the pier.
“The safety of those involved in this recovery operation, maintaining integrity of evidence, and providing some semblance of closure and peace to the decedent’s family have been the top priorities of this operation, ” Virginia Beach Police released in a statement. “We would like to thank all partners, including Crofton Industries, the Virginia Beach Fire Department, and the Chesapeake Fire Department for their assistance in this tragic event.”
Virginia Beach police shared a list of mental health organizations, support groups and resources for suicide prevention and education.
Continue to check WAVY.com for updates.