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Brian Daley, 60, of Utica, Minnesota, was found dead in the Mississippi River on Friday, October 2, 2026, about 1.5 miles south of Lock and Dam 5 in Minnesota waters. His pontoon had been found floating unattended, prompting a search that included land, water and underwater operations. Authorities have not disclosed the cause of death or how he entered the river.

What happened to Brian Daley?

Daley was reported missing on Wednesday, September 30, 2026. A member of the public later found his pontoon floating unattended in the Mississippi River’s main channel and secured it near Merrick State Park. Search crews looked on land and in the water between Bass Camp Resort and the park. On Friday, they shifted to underwater search work and found Daley about 1.5 miles south of Lock and Dam 5.

WEAU reported the recovery based on a joint update from the Winona and Buffalo County sheriff’s offices. The recovery location was in the river within Minnesota waters.

What is known about the cause of death?

The recovery report did not disclose a cause of death or explain the circumstances that led to Daley’s death. The sheriff’s offices said additional information could be released if appropriate after the investigation.

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Earlier reporting said preliminary information indicated the pontoon may have run out of gas. That was an unconfirmed possibility about the boat, not an established explanation for Daley’s death; the reporting did not connect a possible fuel problem to how he died.

What did the sheriff’s offices say?

In their joint statement, the sheriff’s offices said: “We extend our sincere condolences to Brian’s family and loved ones during this extremely difficult time,” and asked that the family’s privacy be respected as they grieve.

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How to share relevant information

Earlier reporting asked anyone with relevant information to contact the Buffalo County Sheriff’s Office or Winona County Sheriff’s Office. No further contact details were included in that report.

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