Body recovered from Pigeon River in Newport

Newport Police reported Thursday that the body of a 44-year-old male was recovered Wednesday from the Pigeon River in Newport.

According to a press release from Newport Police Chief Scott Lamb, police were called to 170 W. Main Street concerning a body floating in the Pigeon River. Police called for assistance from the Swift Water Rescue Team and the Newport Rescue Squad.

Upon arrival, Newport Police Department (NPD) Detective Will Garber took over the scene.

The body was identified as that of Billy Joe Jones, a 44-year-old white male. The remains were sent to the Knoxville Regional Forensic Center for autopsy.

The investigation is ongoing. If anyone has information pertaining to the investigation, they are asked to contact Det. Garber at (423) 623-5556, ext. 543.

Due to the ongoing investigation, NPD indicated no further details are being released at this time.