The Rhode Island DEM has identified the victim who died off of Ocean Drive in Newport Monday afternoon as Joshua C. Jones, age 25, of Providence. Monday was his 25th birthday.
Mr Jones was reportedly swimming and diving off of a rocky cliff area of Ocean Drive known as 12 O’Clock High when he encountered trouble.
According to witness reports, Jones was climbing out of the water when he was knocked back into the water by a wave and could not get out. CPR was administered on scene by Newport Fire and Jones was pulled from the water by Newport Fire rescue swimmers. He was then transported to Newport Hospital where he was pronounced dead.
Mr. Jones leaves behind his mother, his 1 year old daughter Aubrie, his girlfriend, his brother, and many family and loved ones.
The matter remains under investigation by RI Environmental Police and Newport Police.
A GoFundMe has been organized for burial services to support his daughter.
