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Jefferson County, NY: Body Found Near Thousand Islands Bridge
Alexandria Bay, NY – A search near the Thousand Islands Bridge in Jefferson County ended Sunday, October 25, with authorities recovering the body of a 30 year old New York woman from the water near We
By Audrey Sloan · 2026-10-25T20:29:34.436Z
Alexandria Bay, NY – A search near the Thousand Islands Bridge in Jefferson County ended Sunday, October 25, with authorities recovering the body of a 30 year old New York woman from the water near Wellesley Island, following the discovery of an abandoned vehicle that prompted an hourslong bridge shutdown Friday night.
According to the Jefferson County Sheriff 's Office, the body was located at approximately 11:30 a.m. Sunday in roughly 100 feet of water a short distance from Wellesley Island's shoreline.
Authorities identified the deceased as Alea L. Melendez, 30, of Horseheads, New York.
Investigators confirmed Melendez was the registered owner of a vehicle discovered abandoned on the Thousand Islands Bridge late Friday, October 23.
Abandoned Vehicle Triggered Bridge Shutdown
Deputies initially responded at approximately 11:15 p.m. Friday after receiving a report of an abandoned vehicle on the bridge.
The discovery prompted authorities to shut down both lanes for several hours while law enforcement, fire personnel and the U.S. Coast Guard searched the surrounding area.
The bridge has since reopened to traffic.
Surveillance Footage Reviewed
According to the sheriff's office, surveillance footage showed no other people or vehicles near Melendez's vehicle when it was abandoned.
Investigators stated that the incident is not considered criminal in nature.
Authorities have not publicly established the cause or manner of death in the information released.
Multiple Agencies Assisted Recovery
The investigation and recovery involved the New York State Police Dive Team, U.S. Coast Guard, Thousand Islands Bridge Authority and several other agencies.
The Jefferson County Medical Examiner's Office also assisted.
The sheriff's office confirmed that the investigation remains ongoing and previously stated there was no threat to the public.
Residents with relevant information are encouraged to contact the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office.