Large search effort launched for missing man in Norton Reservoir

NORTON, Mass. (WLNE) — A large search effort has been initiated for a man in Norton Reservoir.

Officials said crews responded at 7:30 p.m. after a report that a 40-year-old man dove off a motorboat into the water and did not resurface.

Norton Deputy Chief Todd Jackson said two other men on the boat told police they attempted to throw the man a life preserver.

Jackson added that the three men may have been co-workers, telling police they launched the boat around 6:30 p.m.

“These other two gentlemen might have worked with this individual,” Jackson said. “But they don’t know him to the extent that they have a really positive identification on him.”

Rescue crews responded to Norton Reservoir on June 3, 2024. (WLNE)

ABC 6 News crews on Juniper Road observed a helicopter and dive teams scouring the water.

The Norton Police Department and units from multiple other agencies in the area, including Massachusetts State Police, were also present.

Officials believe the man jumped in about 11 yards offshore in about six feet of water.

Authorities said they would stay out as late as possible Monday evening, adding that it would be difficult to search overnight.

This is a developing story — ABC 6 News will share additional details as they are provided.

ABC 6 News reporter Alyssa Azzara contributed to this story.