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Bridge inspector’s body recovered from Passaic River

UPDATE: The body of a Middlesex County bridge inspector who was swept away by the current in a Passaic River tributary was recovered in Rutherford early this morning, authorities involved in the search confirmed this morning for CLIFFVIEW PILOT.

Photo Credit: CLIFFVIEW PILOT Senior Correspondent Kevin Teel

The body of Efrain Grajeda, 47, of Monroe Township was brought to the Nereid Boat Club on Riverside Avenue after it was retrieved around 6 a.m. near the Union Avenue bridge, responders said.

Authorities searched a 2-mile stretch of the river, storm drains and sewer lines while being beaten back by storms yesterday and Monday after Grajeda fell into Weasel Brook around 2 p.m. Monday.

They included the Bergen County Water Search and Recovery Unit, along with dive teams from the Wallington and Lyndhurst fire departments, and firefighters with boats from Carlstadt, East Rutherford, Garfield, Rutherford; the New Jersey State Police and Passaic police and Moonachie First Aid & Rescue Squad.

Paterson police assisted their Passaic colleagues on their side of the river.

Grajeda worked for a private contractor hired by the state DOT to inspect a footbridge near President Street.

He fell into the water during a heavy afternoon rainstorm and was swept away by the current.

PHOTO: CLIFFVIEW PILOT Senior Correspondent Kevin Teel

CHECK BACK TOMORROW FOR AN UPDATE

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