On August 17, around 2:17 p.m., local authorities responded to an emergency call about a young person jumping from the bridge into the Ohio River. Upon arrival, officers confirmed with a family member that their 15-year-old son had indeed jumped. The bridge was immediately closed as part of securing the scene.
Multiple agencies joined the search effort, including Meade County Fire and EMS, Kentucky Fish and Wildlife, Kentucky State Police, Indiana Department of Natural Resources, and the Louisville Metro Police River Unit/Dive Team. As darkness fell, the search was suspended and set to resume the next morning.
Regarding the tragic event at the Matthew E. Welsh Bridge on Saturday, I can provide the following information:
On Sunday, August 18, Chief Brian Haag and Meade County EMA Director Jeff Cox coordinated additional resources. The search recommenced at noon, with teams from Owensboro Fire Department joining the effort. Local businesses and the American Red Cross provided support for the emergency crews at the Brandenburg boat ramp.
Tragically, at approximately 3:30 p.m., search teams recovered the young person’s body near the Ohio River Bridge. The Meade County Coroner was called to the Brandenburg Boat Dock, and the family was notified of the outcome.
This incident has deeply affected our community, and our thoughts are with the family during this difficult time.
