Body of missing Towson student recovered in Potomac River after two-day search
The body of a missing Towson University student was recovered from the Potomac River on Tuesday after a nearly two-day search.
Nazir Bell, 20, was reported missing after swimming in the river near the Billy Goat Trail A, across from Sandy Landing, on Sunday.
Bell's family members "remained nearby, holding vigil and awaiting word from responders," according to Montgomery County Fire and Rescue spokesperson Pete Piringer.
"Our thoughts are with the family," Piringer added.
Two-day search for missing swimmer
Officials said Bell was swimming with friends near the Billy Goat Trail A and Sandy Landing along the Potomac River on Sunday evening when he went under and never resurfaced. After searching the area on Sunday, crews presumed that Bell had drowned.
Multiple agencies from Maryland and Virginia were involved in the search near Great Falls, which had been suspended on Sunday and Monday.
The search was conducted through air, land, and water. Search and rescue teams utilized sonar and thermal imaging equipment to aid in the search.
A kayaker described the dangers of the Potomac River near Great Falls, which is known for its powerful currents.
"I've been doing this for over 30 years here, and there hasn't been a year gone by where somebody hasn't drowned," a kayaker said.
Last conversation with his mother
Bell's family said he had just finished his freshman year at Towson University.
His mother couldn't believe that Sunday would be the last day she would speak with him.
"He went out with his friends, and he told me he was going to Virginia," Nazir's mother said. "I didn't know that yesterday was going to be my last day."
Towson responds to student's death
A Towson spokesperson told CBS News Baltimore that the "TU community is heartbroken by the loss of student Nazir Bell."
The spokesperson continued, "We join his family, friends and loved ones in the mourning of his tragic passing. Out of respect for Nazir's family and the ongoing investigative process, we will defer to Montgomery County authorities regarding the circumstances surrounding his death."
