The Arctic Village man who was the subject of an intense search after he went missing after jumping from the Steese Highway Bridge in Fairbanks was found in the Chena River on Tuesday night by volunteers.

After almost a week searching, the remains of 35-year-old Andrew John was found at approximately 8 pm on Tuesday evening near the Carlson Center in Fairbanks. His remains were located quite a distance from the original search area. He was found almost two miles from the point that he entered the water.

John and his friend Robert Francis jumped from the bridge on Thursday and attempted to swim to Graehl Landing ended in tragedy when Francis made it to the landing and John Did not. John was last seen going under the surface of the Chena River as he drifted under the Wendell Bridge.

Higher than usual river levels and murky water resulting from frequent heavy rainfall hampered search efforts for John. Search efforts covered the Chena River all the way past where it meets with the Tanana. Volunteers used boats, underwater cameras and sonar in the search for John.

The remains were positively identified as those of John and his next of kin has been notified. Money will be raised for funeral expenses and family travel on Friday. The fundraiser to do so will take place at the Chief David Salmon Hall beginning at 11 am.

VPSO Sergeant Jody Potts coordinated the recovery efforts during the six-day search.

  Alaska, andrew john, chena river, drowning, fairbanks, victim