Body Found in Benton County Irrigation Canal, Foul Play not Suspected

Authorities are trying to figure out how a man fell in a canal sometime in the last 24 hours, according to our news partner, KNDU-TV. (Photo courtesy of KNDU-TV).

Benton County Sheriffs reported Wednesday the man was found floating in the canal around 10:30am by workers near the Chandler Power and Pumping station, just outside of Benton City.

Earlier reports indicated officials thought there might have been a car involved, and were considering draining the canal, but after being able to identify the victim and contact his family, it was learned he was on foot.  The canal will not be drained.

The family of the man, described as Hispanic  and about 25-30 years old, said he had left home yesterday on foot.   Sometime between then and this morning he fell in the canal.  Officials don't suspect foul play,  it is not known if an autopsy is planned to determine the cause of death, which is suspected to be drowning.

The name of the victim has not yet been released.