Darnell Dogan: Family of missing fisherman found dead in Delaware River holds vigil and hopes for closure

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) — Family and friends gathered along the Delaware River Monday evening to celebrate the life of one of their loved ones.

In prayers and remembrance, relatives said a few words to honor 42-year-old Darnell Dogan.

They gathered at the river in Philadelphia because he often visited this place for fishing. It is also the last place Dogan was seen before he disappeared.

“Last Thursday they found his body in the water. We don’t know the circumstances – it’s suspicious circumstances,” said Juanita Johnson, Dogan’s mother.

Dogan’s family said he was on a boat with people they did not know last Tuesday night.

That was the last time they heard from him.

On Wednesday afternoon, his family reported him missing.

“He loved his family, he loved his religion, he loved his dogs and he loved fishing. That’s why we’re here,” Johnson said.

When the naval unit found Dogan floating in the water on Thursday, some kind of material was visible on his wrists.

When the missing person report was filed, investigators said they spoke to the people who were on the boat with Dogan.

Police said the death was suspicious, but no charges have been filed.

“That was my best friend, and knowing that I’m not going to get a call from him anymore, not going to talk to him anymore – no one can understand that except the people who went through it,” Johnson pleaded.

The homicide squad is working on the case, the cause of death has not yet been determined, but the coroner’s report is still pending.