Body of Missing New Jersey Fisherman Recovered Weeks After Search Was Halted

The body of a New Jersey oysterman who went missing earlier this month has been recovered, bringing a heartbreaking conclusion to a search that left his family and community in distress for days.

Matthew Oliver, 47, was working as a crew member aboard a commercial oyster boat when he disappeared on April 9 in the Delaware Bay. He was reported missing shortly after noon while the vessel was traveling near Gandy’s Beach in Cumberland County, an area commonly used by fishing crews.

The case took a tragic turn when, on Tuesday, commercial watermen in the Delaware Bay discovered a body about a mile offshore near Bowers Beach in Kent County, Delaware. Authorities were quickly alerted, and law enforcement responded to the scene. The body was later examined, and officials confirmed that it belonged to Oliver.

His identity was first shared publicly by his daughter, Nicolette Klaitz, before Delaware State Police officially confirmed the identification. Medical examiners also completed their assessment regarding his identity and cause of death.

Earlier in the month, Oliver’s disappearance had prompted a large and urgent response. The U.S. Coast Guard launched search operations after receiving a mayday alert from the vessel. Over multiple missions, search teams covered approximately 77 square nautical miles in an effort to locate him. Despite these extensive efforts, no signs were found, and the search was eventually suspended, with authorities noting it could resume if new information became available.

During that time, Oliver’s family, friends, and members of the local community remained actively involved in search efforts along the shoreline. As the days passed without results, hope of finding him alive began to fade, and the focus shifted toward recovery so the family could find closure.

Oliver was known among loved ones as a dedicated and experienced oysterman who had spent much of his life working on the water. His deep connection to the bay and fishing community was widely recognized. Family members shared that he understood the risks of his profession and had previously spoken about the dangers, including the fear of falling overboard and not being found.

His daughter remembered him as a loving father who deeply cared for his family. She said he enjoyed being on the water and found happiness in fishing and oystering. Those who knew him described him as someone who valued both his work and the time he spent with his loved ones.

The family also expressed gratitude to those who assisted during the difficult search period. They thanked the crew of the Bonanza II charter fishing boat, the Downe Township Fire and Rescue and Dive Team, and the many boaters who contributed their time and effort. Special appreciation was also extended to the individuals who found Oliver and remained at the scene until authorities arrived.

While the outcome is tragic, the recovery of Oliver’s body has provided a measure of closure for his family after days of uncertainty. The incident also highlights the ongoing risks faced by those who work on the water, even with experience and caution.

Sources:
Delaware State Police
U.S. Coast Guard