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Autopsy determines Hammond drowning was accidental

Posted 6/21/11

HAMMOND -- An autopsy performed on a man found dead Sunday in the St. Lawrence River has determined that the death was due to accidental drowning. The body of John M. Huniford, 56, Brewerton, was …

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Autopsy determines Hammond drowning was accidental

Posted

HAMMOND -- An autopsy performed on a man found dead Sunday in the St. Lawrence River has determined that the death was due to accidental drowning.

The body of John M. Huniford, 56, Brewerton, was found shortly after a search began by the St. Lawrence County Dive Team, approximately 40 yards from the family dock off Indian Point Road.

Dr. Samuel A. Livingstone performed the autopsy on Huniford at Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center in Ogdensburg Monday.

The cause of death was determined to be asphyxiation due to drowning and the manner of death was ruled accidental, according to New York State Police.

Huniford regularly swam in the St. Lawrence River, but his father contacted authorities when he got concerned because he could see his clothing and towel were on the dock but he could not see him in the water.

The United States Coast Guard, Hammond Fire and Rescue, Morristown Fire and Rescue, St. Lawrence County Dive Team, New York State Department of Conservation Forest Rangers and Canada Customs all took part in the search for Huniford.

When he was found, Huniford was transported to Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center in Ogdensburg