Missing Ocean Gate Man's Body Found At Island Beach State Park

ISLAND BEACH STATE PARK, NJ — A missing man's body washed ashore Thursday at Island Beach State Park. Matthew Conway, of Ocean Gate, took his rowboat out on the water Tuesday and didn't return home, according to the Ocean County Prosecutor's Office.

He was reported missing after several hours, prompting a search. Conway, 67, was last seen near Ocean Gate Beach rowing into the Toms River, according to the U.S. Coast Guard.

“An autopsy will be performed on Mr. Conway to confirm his cause of death," said Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer. "Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of Mr. Conway."

The OCPO's Major Crime Unit, New Jersey State Park Police, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, New Jersey State Police Marine Unit, Seaside Park Police Department and Ocean Gate Police Department assisted in the investigation.

Authorities searching by air and by boat discovered his lifejacket Wednesday, prompting a suspension of the search, according to nj.com.

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