The Wapello County Sheriff’s Office was made aware of a submerged vehicle in the Des Moines River after an individual called on the 26th of February. The caller mentioned that they were fishing near Rock Bluff Park when they saw the vehicle in the middle of the river.
The next day, the Wapello County Sheriff’s Office, Ottumwa Fire Department, and Deran’s Towing and Recovery formulated a plan to retrieve the vehicle from the water. After several attempts the vehicle was eventually removed and the body of a deceased male was located inside. The identity of the body is not being released at this time and has been transported to Iowa Office of the State Medical Examiner.
The death is under investigation by the Wapello County Sheriff’s Office.