KEARNY, N.J. — The body of Brian Kolakowski, 37, of North Arlington, was recovered Tuesday from the Passaic River after an investigation into his disappearance led authorities to his submerged vehicle, the Kearny Police Department announced.
Kolakowski was reported missing to the North Arlington Police Department on December 4. Surveillance footage reviewed by Kearny Detective Kyle Plaugic revealed that Kolakowski’s Volkswagen Jetta entered the river via the boat ramp at Frank Vincent Marina at 4:29 a.m. on the same day.
Recovery efforts began immediately, with Kearny Police drones locating the vehicle, which had drifted south from the marina before overturning and sinking. Poor weather conditions and low underwater visibility delayed the recovery process.
On December 10, the New Jersey State Police Marine Services Unit, along with State Police divers from the Special Operations Section and assistance from Moran Towing, successfully recovered the vehicle. Kolakowski, the sole occupant, was pronounced deceased at the scene.