Body of missing Stockton teen discovered in Calaveras River
STOCKTON – A Stockton Unified official confirmed late Tuesday afternoon that the body discovered in the Calaveras River earlier in the day was a Stockton teenager who went missing nearly a week prior.
Crews have been searching the Calaveras River near Stagg High School since last Wednesday after 15-year-old Xavier Martinez was seen going into the water. He had not been seen since.
On Tuesday, the San Joaquin County Sheriff's Office confirmed that a body was discovered within the search area. The body was found around 12:30 p.m., the sheriff's office says.
Melinda Meza, a spokesperson for the Stockton Unified School District, later confirmed the body found was Martinez. The San Joaquin medical examiner also confirmed the identity.
Stockton Unified officials said four students fought on campus that Wednesday. A school resource officer went up to get the students' names, and that's when two teens ran and jumped into the levee that led to the river.
One student got out of the water, authorities said, but Martinez never resurfaced.
In a statement, Stockton Unified Superintendent Dr. Michelle Rodriguez said they are continuing to support Martinez's family.
"As SUSD Superintendent and a mother, it is my sincere desire that all involved find peace and comfort," Dr. Rodriguez stated.
Counselors and mental health clinicians have been out at the search area over the past week.
Family members of the teen have told CBS13 that they would not be speaking publicly until they have answers.