UPDATE:  Boothbay Harbor Police Chief Bob Hasch identified the man found dead yesterday in Boothbay Harbor as Don Johnson of St. Louis, Missouri.

Johnson worked as a line cook at Fisherman’s Wharf in downtown Boothbay Harbor since May of this year, joining two other family members on Fisherman’s staff.

Fisherman’s Wharf Manager Ramsey Lafayette described Johnson as “a kind and gentle soul” who displayed admirable craftsmanship in the kitchen.

“He was a hard worker, dependable and a great person to be around. A true artist,” Lafayette said. “His sudden death comes as a huge blow to our family here. An absolute tragedy. He is sadly missed and will always be remembered.”

Original story: Boothbay Harbor police and fire department personnel removed the body of a deceased 25-year-old man from the inner harbor on Saturday morning, Oct. 3. Police are not yet releasing the name of the man, pending notification of next of kin.

Chief Bob Hasch said they received a call at 9 a.m. and Officer Tom Chryplewicz responded to the inner harbor area near the footbridge minutes later.

Once on scene, Chryplewicz immediately called for assistance. Officers Nick Upham and Larry Brown, Chief Hasch, and firefighters Tom Caron and Nick Livingston assisted in retrieving the man’s body. Later Lincoln Sheriff’s Office Deputy Kevin Dennison and Sgt. Alan Shea assisted BHPD in a canine search of the area.

Hasch said police have been able to track much of the man’s movements during the previous night and there is no evidence of foul play. 

The State Medical Examiner will determine cause of death.