By: Richard L. Smith
Authorities in Essex County have identified the individual discovered deceased in Weequahic Park as Mr. Juwaan Austin, a 25-year-old Newark resident who was reported missing last week.
Mr. Austin was last seen on January 16, prompting a public appeal from Newark Public Safety Director Fritz G. Fragé for assistance in locating him.
Austin was known for his visits to the area of Frelinghuysen Avenue and Dayton Street, and he was reported to be driving a 2020 Chevrolet Malibu with New Jersey registration C31RSF.
The grim discovery was made before 10:30 a.m. on the golf course side of the lake within the park's boundaries, where police were alerted to an unconscious person.
First responders, upon arrival, pronounced Austin dead at the scene. The investigation, spearheaded by the Essex County Prosecutor's Office and the Sheriff's Department, is now underway to determine the circumstances leading to his death.
Officials are exploring the possibility that Austin might have been pursued, leading him to enter the park and jump into the lake.
Authorities have not confirmed nor reported a police foot pursuit.
It is believed that he managed to exit the lake but succumbed to hyperthermia due to the frigid overnight temperatures that plummeted below zero.
While the snowy area near the lake has been cordoned off for investigation, no arrests have been made.
The case remains under active investigation as authorities work to piece together the events that led to this tragic outcome.