The Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) announced Monday that officials are investigating the untimely death of 83‑year‑old Christopher Andrews, whose body was recovered from a shoreline near Mystic Harbor early that morning.

What happened

At approximately 10 a.m., DEEP crews discovered a vessel adrift in the waters surrounding Mystic Harbor. Shortly thereafter, responders found Mr. Andrews deceased on the nearby beach. The Stonington Fire Department, Stonington Police Department, and the U.S. Coast Guard all responded to the scene and assisted with the recovery effort.

Local ties

DEEP confirmed that Mr. Andrews was a resident of the Noank section of Groton, a historic fishing community on the Thames River. Noank residents have expressed sorrow over the loss of a longtime neighbor, though officials emphasized that there is no indication of a public safety threat.

Ongoing investigations

The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner will conduct a separate autopsy to determine the cause and manner of death. In addition, Environmental Conservation (EnCon) police are reviewing the circumstances surrounding the incident to determine whether a boating accident occurred.

Community response

Local officials have urged residents to remain vigilant when navigating the harbor’s waters, especially during early‑morning hours when visibility can be limited. The Stonington Police Department reminded boaters to file a float plan and to keep safety equipment on board.

Safety reminders

DEEP and EnCon continue to monitor the harbor for any environmental hazards that could arise from a vessel drifting unattended. At this time, both agencies have reported no immediate threats to water quality or public health.

Authorities ask anyone with additional information about the incident to contact the Stonington Police Department or the EnCon police unit.

Original reporting: NBC Connecticut — read the source article.