UPDATE: Phenix City man, 69, dies in apparent accidental drowning near 13th Street Bridge
A 69-year-old Phenix City man died Wednesday morning in an apparent accidental drowning near the 13th Street Bridge in Columbus, according to Muscogee County Coroner Buddy Bryan.
The victim was identified as Larry Reed of Phenix City. Bryan said Reed was pronounced deceased at the scene at 8:30 a.m. on October 14, 2026. His family has been notified.
CNAW2News first received word of a law enforcement and Columbus Fire and EMS presence at the 13th Street Bridge at approximately 7:18 a.m. Wednesday.
According to Bryan, Reed’s family confirmed that he went fishing daily. It is believed he may have slipped on the rocks and fallen into the water.
The death is being treated as an accidental drowning, and no autopsy will be performed, Bryan said.
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