Human Remains Found Along Brooklyn's Red Hook Waterfront

NYPD investigating discovery of unidentified body near Van Brunt Street pier

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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Authorities in New York City reported that a man's body was found near the shoreline in the Red Hook neighborhood of Brooklyn on Saturday afternoon. Police and fire department personnel responded to a 911 call and discovered the unidentified remains around 1:30 p.m. near the Van Brunt Street pier. The body was pronounced dead at the scene, and witnesses described the remains as appearing skeletal and small in stature.

Why it matters

The discovery of human remains along the Brooklyn waterfront raises concerns about potential foul play or an unattended death in the area. Red Hook has seen its share of crime and safety issues in recent years, making this an unsettling development for the local community.

The details

According to officials, police and FDNY units were called to the scene after a 911 report of a body in the water off the Red Hook shoreline. The unidentified man's remains were found around 1:30 p.m. near the Van Brunt Street pier. Emergency medical services pronounced the individual dead at the location. Witnesses told a local news outlet that the remains appeared to be skeletal and small in stature, located on rocks near the pier.

  • The body was discovered around 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, March 9, 2026.

The players

NYPD

The New York City Police Department is leading the investigation into the discovery of the human remains.

FDNY

The New York City Fire Department responded to the 911 call and assisted at the scene.

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What’s next

Authorities have not released additional details about the investigation, which is ongoing. The medical examiner will work to identify the individual and determine the cause of death.

The takeaway

This grim discovery along the Brooklyn waterfront underscores the need for continued vigilance and community efforts to address safety and security concerns in the Red Hook neighborhood.