EASTON, Pennsylvania — Authorities have officially identified the man whose body was recovered from the Lehigh River Sunday evening following a water rescue operation that drew emergency crews to the scene for over an hour.
The Northampton County Coroner has identified the victim as Andre Fighera, 48 years old, a resident of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Following an official examination, the cause of death was determined to be drowning, and the manner of death was ruled accidental.
Emergency personnel were dispatched Sunday afternoon to the area near the 100 block of Larry Holmes Drive after receiving a 911 call reporting a drowning in progress. Easton Fire Chief Henry Hennings confirmed that a witness contacted emergency services after observing a man go beneath the surface of the Lehigh River at approximately 5 p.m.
Multiple rescue crews responded rapidly to the location and began search operations along the river. After approximately one hour of active search efforts, crews successfully located and recovered the body from the water.
A critical detail emerged during the investigation that authorities say is significant. According to witnesses who spoke with investigators, Fighera was not wearing a life jacket at the time he entered the water. Water safety officials have long emphasized that the absence of a personal flotation device dramatically increases the risk of drowning, even for individuals who consider themselves capable swimmers.
Northampton County Coroner Zachary Lysek formally released the identification and confirmed all findings following the completion of the official examination process.
The incident serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers associated with rivers, particularly during warmer months when water activity increases significantly across the region. The Lehigh River, while a popular recreational area, carries strong currents that can become unpredictable and dangerous without proper safety precautions in place.
Authorities have not indicated any signs of foul play. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident is considered complete, with the death officially classified as a tragic accident.
