MASSENA -- State police are continuing their investigation involving the death of Canadian man who fell off a dock into the St. Lawrence Seaway near Eisenhower Locks early Tuesday morning.
Troopers say, Alfred Eshun, Quebec, slipped from the dock around 12:20 a.m.
Eshun was pulled from the water within minutes but was unresponsive, according to state police. He was pronounced dead at Massena Memorial Hospital at 2:02 a.m.
An investigation revealed Eshun was working on the Canadian bulk carrier, ‘Spruceglen.’ Spruceglen was inbound, and prior to entering the Eisenhower Locks, Eshun was hoisted down the side of Spruceglen, to tie the ship off while awaiting another ship already in the locks, investigators say. After being hoisted down to shore, Eshun lost his balance on the dock and fell into the water.
Troopers say it is unclear at this time if Eshun had a medical episode prior to going into the water or if cold water and air temperatures led to his death.
Two St. Lawrence Seaway employees who attempted to rescue Eshun were rescued and treated for possible hypothermia, police say.
Massena Fire and Rescue responded and assisted with pulling the 57-year-old man from the water, and then initiated CPR, troopers say.
St. Lawrence County Coroner James M. Sienkiewycz responded to the hospital, troopers say.
An autopsy will be performed at a later time to be announced.
The investigation is continuing. The U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Detachment is assisting with this investigation.
