NORTH LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (KTHV) — A body that was found on Sunday morning in the Arkansas River has been identified.
On Monday, the body was positively identified as 19-year-old Khalil Smith who was reported missing after last being seen swimming in the river on Saturday.
Searchers found the man around 11 a.m., almost 18 hours after rescuers began looking for a swimmer who disappeared Saturday night.
Lieutenant Theodore Haase of the Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office says the incident highlights the dangers of swimming in the river, no matter how calm the water seems.
“People relatively, commonly come out here fish, swim do other activities. We never recommend swimming in the Arkansas River though,” Lt. Haase said.
The death is believed to be an accidental drowning, but the body is at the Medical Examiner’s office for confirmation.
