Laurence Harbor Man Identified As Missing Keyport Kayaker; Body Found

KEYPORT, NJ — The man's body that washed up Sunday night on the beach in Keyport has now been confirmed to be missing kayaker Zhenjing Ding, Keyport Police announced on Facebook.

Ding, 74, is a Laurence Harbor resident. He was last seen kayaking in Raritan Bay just off Keyport marina on Monday, Oct. 23. He called 911 that afternoon from his kayak to report that his kayak was taking on water, and that he needed help.

Keyport Police called in the Coast Guard to search for him, and they searched Raritan Bay for 36 hours, using helicopters, but never located him.

However, later that same day, Oct. 23, Keyport Police made the sober discovery of finding his upturned kayak, which had been rigged for fishing, near Cedar Street Park, along with his personal belongings and cell phone. Ding remained missing.

Then, six days later, on Sunday night Oct. 29, the body of an adult man washed up on the beach near American Legion Drive. An autopsy was performed and on Nov. 3, Keyport Police announced the body was that of Ding.

"His family has been informed, and is in close contact with us," said Keyport Police. "Our heartfelt condolences and deepest sympathies go out to the friends and family for the loss of Mr. Ding."

Coast Guard Ends Search For Missing Monmouth County Kayaker (Oct. 25)

Man's Body Washed Ashore On Keyport Beach Sunday Night (Oct. 30)