New Bedford Man Found Dead in Water Near Fort Taber Park

NEW BEDFORD (WBSM) — A New Bedford man’s body was pulled from the water this morning near Fort Taber Park in the city’s South End.

Body Found Near Fort Taber Park Entrance

According to Bristol County District Attorney Thomas M. Quinn III, a person walking the path around the park contacted emergency services just after 11 a.m. upon locating a body in the water near the park’s entrance.

New Bedford Police arrived at the scene and pulled a fully-clothed, unresponsive man from the water. When paramedics arrived, they pronounced the man deceased.

Victim Identified as New Bedford Man

He has been identified as Joel Barboza, 43, of New Bedford.

No Signs of Trauma Reported

The D.A.’s Office said there was no observable trauma to Barboza’s body, and that his death is not deemed suspicious. The official cause and manner of death is pending a determination from the Massachusetts Office of the Chief Medical Examiner.

Get our free mobile app

Investigation Remains Ongoing

The investigation remains ongoing by New Bedford Police and Massachusetts State Police detectives assigned to the D.A.’s Office.

Massachusetts Unresolved Cases Playing Cards

Playing cards are being distributed to inmates in Massachusetts correctional facilities depicting the victims of unsolved murders and disappearances in the hopes that some inmates may recognize them and help bring closure to their cases.

Gallery Credit: Tim Weisberg

Source: Body Found Near Fort Taber Identified as New Bedford Man