NSW police find body of missing swimmer in Hawkesbury River

Police have found the body of a man who went missing after swimming in a river in Sydney’s north-west yesterday evening.

The 45-year-old man was swimming across the Hawkesbury River, south of the Wilberforce Road Bridge, Windsor, when he became distressed and disappeared under the water.

Other swimmers attempted to assist the man, but when he did not surface officers from Hawkesbury Police Area Command were contacted.

A search was conducted with assistance from PolAir, police divers, NSW Ambulance, and NSW State Emergency Service.

Just before 11.30pm, police divers located the body of a 45-year-old man.

A report will be prepared for the Coroner.

Chief Inspector Garry Sims of Hawkesbury Police Area Command said it was vital people made safety the main priority when in, on or around the water this summer.

“Police urge all people engaged in aquatic activities to assess the environment and know the limits of their ability,” Ch Insp Sims said.

“It is a tragedy for this to occur at this time of year and at the start of the summer season.”

Anyone with information is urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.