The NYPD confirmed that a body floating in the Hudson River near West 86th Street is that of missing person Jiwon Lee.
Lee was last seen on April 1, at her apartment on West 98th Street. The 29-year-old was a student at Columbia Dental School, and was the president of the American Student Dental Association. She had also worked for AmeriCorps, teaching math to middle school students in New York City, and was a comedian as well. Lee was also reportedly bi-polar, had suffered from depression and tried to commit suicide before.
Her body was found on Saturday afternoon at 3:28 p.m.; according to the Daily News, she was clad in a "sweater, underwear and boots." The Post notes, "Her cellphone was tracked to the George Washington Bridge, prompting speculation she had jumped."
On the GoFundMe page set up to raise money to search for her, her brother posted, "Thank you for your continued prayers, donations, and support. Unfortunately, Jiwon, beloved daughter, sister, and friend has gone on to a better place. Our family thanks you at this time for respecting our privacy. We are currently planning a memorial service to honor Jiwon and will post further details as soon as possible."
The ME's office is investigating Lee's cause of death.
If someone you know exhibits warning signs of suicide: do not leave the person alone; remove any firearms, alcohol, drugs or sharp objects that could be used in a suicide attempt; and call the U.S. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK (8255) or take the person to an emergency room or seek help from a medical or mental health professional.
