Putnam County Man Drowns in New River, Name Released
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Updated: 2:10 AM Jul 6, 2009
Putnam County Man Drowns in New River, Name Released
A Putnam County man is dead after falling into the New River and drowning.
Posted: 3:40 PM Jul 5, 2009
Reporter: Associated Press
Email Address: news@wsaz.com
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TERRY, W.Va. (AP) - The National Park Service has released the name of a Putnam County fisherman who drowned in an accident on the New River.

Gary Hartley, chief ranger for the New River Gorge National River, says 31-year-old Richard Dale Harrison of Red House apparently slipped while fishing and was swept away about 2 p.m. Saturday.

Harrison's body was recovered about two hours later from a pool about 2 miles downstream from Terry and sent to the state medical examiner.

Hartley says campers who saw Harrison fall tried to throw him a rope and a cooler, but were unable to reach him.

Hartley says Harrison worked as a home confinement officer for Putnam County.

If you have a photo of Richard that you'd like to share with us, please e-mail it to: pix@wsaz.com

Latest Comments

Posted by: Kelley on Jul 8, 2009 at 10:27 PM

I am so sorry to hear about Richard. His wonderful sense of humor and contagious smile will be missed. My love and prayers go out to his family.
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Posted by: Chris F on Jul 7, 2009 at 06:43 PM

Richard was great to work with and such a great friend. He always had concern for his family and as steve said little Wyatt changed him forever its so sad that, that little boy will have to be told about what a great father, husband and fried his dad was. My thought and prayers are with his entire family and friends.
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Posted by: Wendy on Jul 7, 2009 at 12:38 PM

I'm at a loss for words, but you'll be dearly missed Rich! My thoughts and prayers go out to his family & friends...
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