Body Recovered from New River Identified as Jacksonville Man, 29
ONSLOW COUNTY, NC — August 4, 2025
Authorities have confirmed the identity of a man whose body was discovered early Monday morning in the New River near the Herbert G. “Buddy” Phillips Bridge in Onslow County. The deceased has been identified as Aaron Gage Stallings, a 29-year-old resident of Jacksonville, North Carolina.
According to a press release from the Onslow County Sheriff’s Office, the body was discovered around 7:00 a.m. by a local fisherman, who immediately contacted emergency services after spotting a body floating several hundred yards upstream from the bridge.
Multi-Agency Response
Deputies from the Onslow County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene along with members of the Jacksonville Police Department, Jacksonville Fire & Emergency Services, and the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission. First responders secured the area and conducted a coordinated recovery operation.
Upon retrieval, the victim was identified as Stallings. Authorities have not released further details regarding how long the body may have been in the water or whether any signs of trauma were observed at the scene.
Cause of Death Pending Autopsy
At this time, the cause of death remains undetermined. An autopsy has been ordered and will be conducted by the North Carolina Office of the Chief Medical Examiner to establish the official cause and manner of death.
Investigators have not commented on whether foul play is suspected, though the case remains active and ongoing.
“We are treating this matter with full investigative resources,” a Sheriff’s Office spokesperson said Monday. “Updates will be provided to the public as more information becomes available following the autopsy.”
Public Asked to Assist
Authorities are encouraging anyone with information about Aaron Gage Stallings’ recent whereabouts or who may have seen suspicious activity in the area to contact the Onslow County Sheriff’s Office or submit tips anonymously to Crime Stoppers at (910) 938-3273.
Community Reaction
News of Stallings’ death has spread quickly throughout Jacksonville, where friends and community members have begun expressing condolences online. Some described him as “friendly and quiet,” while others said he had recently been seen near the river in the days leading up to the discovery.
A vigil or memorial may be organized once more information is confirmed by the family.
Stay Informed
This is a developing story. The Chronicle will continue to monitor the investigation closely and provide verified updates as more becomes available from authorities.
For ongoing coverage, visit: https://thechronicle.cfd