Body Found In Portsmouth Harbour

Police have confirmed a man's body found in the sea near Warner Buoy outside Portsmouth Harbour on August 7, 2012 has been formally identified through fingerprints.

The body was that of Marco Araujo, aged 33, of Grafton Street, Portsmouth, who was last seen in the water near Tower Street on the afternoon of Thursday, July 26, 2012.

He had been missing at sea off the coast of Portsmouth since helping to rescue two children from the water.

A police family liaison officer is keeping relatives of Marco Araujo informed.

The discovery of the body and the death are not being treated as suspicious.

Police are preparing a file for HM Coroner.

In a statement issued through Hampshire Police, Marco’s partner Tracey Hall said:

“A lovely family day turned into my worst nightmare, which I cannot wake from.

"My three-year-old grandson and I watched Marco go into the sea to save lives. There was no hesitation from Marco.

“I have lost my partner, my best friend and my soulmate. To everyone you are a hero, but to me, you were my life.

"What you showed to everyone by your heroic actions, I already knew. You will never be forgotten, you are my life; a fabulous dad, granddad, son, brother, uncle and friend.

"All who had the pleasure of knowing you are left with a big gaping hole in their hearts. We all adore you more than you’ll ever know. I know you’re with me and I take great comfort knowing that. One day we will be together again forever.”