STRATFORD, CT — The body of a fisherman who went missing after becoming stranded on a reef has been found on a beach near Shoreline Drive.
Kwahiwi Edwards, 34, of Queens, New York, was located on the morning of June 20, 2026.
Edwards had been reported missing on June 13, 2026, after he and another fisherman became stranded on the reef at Penfield Beach in Fairfield as the incoming tide rapidly surrounded them.
A witness entered the water in an attempt to assist the fishermen but was also swept into deeper water.
Responding Fairfield Police officers successfully rescued the witness and the second fisherman, but Edwards could not be located.
An extensive search and recovery operation was conducted involving local, state, and federal agencies, including marine units, dive teams, drone operators, and aviation resources.
Active search and rescue operations concluded on June 13, but recovery efforts by the Fairfield Police Department continued in the days that followed.
Agencies assisting in the search and recovery effort included the Fairfield Fire Department, the Towns of Westport, Monroe, Milford, Trumbull, Newtown, and Stratford, the City of Bridgeport, Nassau County, and the United States Coast Guard.
The Fairfield Police Department specifically recognized Newtown Underwater Search and Recovery and Sea Tow for their continued assistance throughout the operation.
The Department also recognized the witness whose actions were instrumental in helping save a life during the incident.
