The search for a missing man in Chatham has taken a tragic turn on Christmas Eve.
Chatham-Kent police said officers found the man's lifeless body when they were responding to a report of a body in McGregor Creek in Chatham at around 10:30 a.m. Friday.
Officers said the Chatham-Kent Fire Department helped them with the recovery effort, adding that the deceased was identified as 23-year-old Dakota Gross, who was previously reported missing and last seen by a family member on December 20, 2021.
Police said his next of kin have been notified and the police service is offering its sincerest condolences to Gross' family and friends.
They are also thanking the public for their help with the investigation.
Police said they are still working with the Coroner's Office, but added that at this time the death is not believed to be suspicious.
**With files from Allanah Wills**