Large search effort launched for missing man in Norton Reservoir

NORTON, Mass. (WLNE) – A massive search effort has been launched for a man in Norton Reservoir.

Authorities said crews responded at 7:30 p.m. after a 40-year-old man dove from a motorboat into the water and did not resurface.

Norton Deputy Chief Todd Jackson said two other men on the boat tried to throw a life vest at him.

Jackson added that the three men may have been co-workers, telling police they launched the boat around 6:30 p.m.

“These other two gentlemen could have worked with this individual,” Jackson said. “But they don’t know him to the point where they can identify him in a really positive way.”

ABC 6 News crews on Juniper Road observed a helicopter and dive teams scouring the water.

The Norton Police Department and units from several other area agencies, including the Massachusetts State Police, were also present.

Authorities believe the man jumped about 35 feet offshore, into about six feet of water.

Authorities said they would stay out as late as possible Monday evening, adding that it would be difficult to search overnight.

This is a developing story – ABC 6 News will share additional details as they become available.

ABC 6 News reporter Alyssa Azzara contributed to this story.