Man Drowns Attempting To Retrieve Car Keys

On April 14, 2014, at approximately 1:21 a.m., Virginia State Police Trooper J. Renas was called by the Northampton Sheriffs office in reference to a possible drowning which occurred at 2175 Morleys Wharf Road (fishing pier) in Wardtown, Virginia.

Witnesses called into the 911 center stating that a male subject had entered the water and never resurfaced.

Troy S. Tankard, age 30, of Nassawadox, Virginia, entered into the water to retrieve his car keys that had been thrown earlier into the water with his wet clothing.

 After entering the water, Mr. Tankard never resurfaced, and witnesses at the scene attempted to locate him prior to calling emergency personnel.

The Virginia State Police Search and Rescue Team were called in to assist in the search and at approximately 8:55, Mr. Tankards body was recovered twenty feet from the pier.


This incident is being treated as an accidental drowning with no signs of foul play. Family members were notified at the scene.

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