Body found floating in Catawba River near I-85 identified as missing man

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A body found floating in the Catawba River earlier this month has been identified as Eric Byers, who had been reported missing by family members.

The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department said someone called on Jan. 8 saying a body was floating in the Catawba River near Interstate 85. The 911 call came in just before 1:30 p.m.

Police said the Charlotte Fire Department helped with the recovery effort.

Chopper 9 Skyzoom flew over the scene and could see police cruisers lining the interstate as rescue crews scoured the river for evidence.

On Wednesday, CMPD said the body was Byers, who had been reported missing on Jan. 4. Byers was found in the same area where his SUV had previously been found.

[ALSO READ: Family, friends concerned after missing Charlotte man’s vehicle found abandoned on I-85]

Byers, 56, was last heard from Friday night before he was reported missing. He told his mother he’d see her in the morning and take her to church, but he never showed.

His family had been holding out hope and praying he’d be found.

The investigation is ongoing and police have not released a cause of death.

Check back for updates on this developing story.

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