On Wednesday, Smithfield Police released a sketch of a tattoo found on an unidentified man whose body was found floating in the Neuse River. Officers hope this new information will lead to the man’s identity.
On April 25th, NC Department of Transportation workers were clearing debris that had lodged against the US 301 South Bridge over the Neuse River when they spotted the body in the debris.
The victim had a blue and red tattoo on their upper right arm near his shoulder.
According to the NC Medical Examiner, the man could either be Caucasian, Asian or Hispanic. He is about 5 foot 3.
Police ruled early on that the body was not that of Cole Thomas, a 22 year-old man who disappeared in Benson in November 2016.
Anyone who has information about the victim or may recognize the tattoo is asked to contact Detective R.L. Johnson at the Smithfield Police Department at 919-934-2121. A cash reward is being offered to anyone who provides substantial information in identifying the victim. If a caller wishes to remain anonymous they may call the Smithfield Police Tip Line at 919-989-8835.
