ELKHART, IN — The Elkhart Police Department has officially identified the man whose body they recovered from the St. Joseph River on Friday. The victim has been identified as 50-year-old Anthony Null, a resident of Elkhart.
Authorities say the discovery was made shortly before 1 p.m. on Thursday, when officers responded to a report of a body in the water near the 300 block of East Beardsley Avenue, a well-trafficked area near the river.
Emergency personnel were quickly dispatched, and upon arrival, they located the deceased male near the shoreline of the river. The scene was immediately secured, and members of the Elkhart County Homicide Unit were called in to investigate the circumstances surrounding Null’s death.
While the cause and manner of death have not been officially released pending autopsy results, officials say the case is being treated as an active and ongoing investigation.
Detectives spent several hours at the scene gathering evidence and speaking with possible witnesses in the area. The location where Null’s body was found is near a walking path and residential area, making it a place that is often frequented by local residents.
Authorities hope someone saw how he ended up in the river. At this time, investigators have not released any information regarding possible foul play, nor have they disclosed how long they believe the body had been in the water prior to its discovery.
The Elkhart County Coroner’s Office is working in conjunction with law enforcement to determine the official cause of death, which could offer important clues regarding the nature of the incident.
Friends and family of Anthony Null have begun mourning his loss as they await more answers. While little is publicly known about his personal life, neighbors in the community expressed shock upon hearing of the discovery.
“This is really sad,” said one resident who lives a few blocks from the river. “You never expect to hear about something like this happening so close to home.” The Elkhart Police Department is now appealing to the public for assistance.
Anyone who may have been in the area of East Beardsley Avenue near the St. Joseph River on Wednesday or Thursday, or who may have relevant information, is urged to come forward. Investigators are particularly interested in any suspicious activity or individuals observed in the area during that period.
The Elkhart County Homicide Unit continues to lead the investigation and is working diligently to uncover what led to Null’s death. Tips can be provided directly to the unit or through local crime tip hotlines.
Officials assure the public that all tips will be thoroughly vetted and may be submitted anonymously. As the community seeks clarity and closure, authorities remain committed to bringing answers to Anthony Null’s family. Further updates are expected as the investigation progresses.
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