Jacksonville, North Carolina: Authorities Confirm Identity of Body Discovered in New River as Aaron Gage Stallings
JACKSONVILLE, NC — August 4, 2025
Authorities in Onslow County have confirmed the identity of a man whose body was discovered early Monday morning in the New River, bringing both shock and sadness to the Jacksonville community. The deceased has been identified as Aaron Gage Stallings, a 29-year-old resident of Jacksonville, North Carolina.
The Onslow County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call around 7:00 a.m. from a local fisherman who reported seeing a body floating several hundred yards upstream from the Herbert G. “Buddy” Phillips Bridge. Emergency responders quickly arrived on the scene to assess the situation and retrieve the individual from the water.
The body was recovered without incident and transported for further examination. Officials with the Onslow County Medical Examiner’s Office were brought in to assist with identification and help determine the circumstances surrounding the man’s death. It was shortly afterward that Aaron Gage Stallings was positively identified.
At this time, authorities have not released any information regarding the cause or manner of death. The Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that an investigation is underway, and preliminary findings do not immediately suggest foul play. However, officials are awaiting the results of an autopsy and toxicology screening to gain a clearer understanding of what may have happened.
The area where the body was discovered is a commonly frequented location for both fishing and boating. As such, law enforcement temporarily restricted access to portions of the river during the recovery and early investigation. The bridge area was reopened to the public by mid-morning after the scene was cleared.
Friends and acquaintances of Aaron Stallings have expressed their grief and disbelief on social media, remembering him as a friendly and kind-hearted individual. Many have noted his strong roots in the Jacksonville area and his presence in the local community.
Family members were notified promptly after positive identification was made. While no public statement has been released by relatives at this time, those close to the family have asked for privacy as they process the devastating news.
Authorities are encouraging anyone who may have seen or heard anything unusual in the area late Sunday night or early Monday morning to contact the Onslow County Sheriff’s Office. Investigators are working to piece together a timeline and are open to any information that may assist in the case.
As the investigation continues, the community remains hopeful for answers while mourning the loss of one of their own. The Sheriff’s Office has assured the public that updates will be provided as new developments arise and that they remain committed to a thorough and respectful inquiry into the circumstances of Aaron Stallings’ passing.
Leave a Reply