Body That Was Pulled From an Illinois River Identified as Rockford Man

The body of a Rockford man who fell into the river last week was just recovered yesterday and has now been positively identified by the Sheriff, according to a press release from the Winnebago County Coroner Office.

On June 1, several people were on the walking bridge underneath the Jefferson Street Bridge around 4 am when 22-year-old Naterrion Pickett reportedly fell into the Rock River.

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Pickett's brother immediately jumped into the water but tragically could not bring his brother to shore, according to the press release.

Personnel with the Rockford Police and Fire Department immediately arrived on the scene of the Rock River and began the recovery process but were unsuccessful in locating the body.

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On Sunday, June 2 a recovery plan was executed but the body of Pickett wasn't able to be located. Yesterday (Tuesday 6/4) the body was finally located near the docks in the 200 block of N. Water St.

With the help of Rockford Fire Department personnel, Mr. Pickett was removed from the water and he was pronounced deceased at 6:51 p.m.

A preliminary autopsy has been performed on Mr. Pickett and results are pending further studies, according to the press release.

The Winnebago County Coroner’s Office and the Rockford Police Department continue to investigate Mr. Pickett’s death, according to the press release.

This story is developing and will be updated as more information becomes available.