Body of missing state bridge worker pulled from Hood Canal

Salvage crews have recovered the body and truck of a state transportation worker from waters near the Hood Canal Bridge.

Acting state Transportation Secretary Roger Millar told employees of the recovery in an email Thursday morning.

Searchers began looking for the bridge maintenance worker May 17 after he went missing at the end of his shift. Officials found evidence that a vehicle had breached a pedestrian cable railing on the lower deck of the bridge.

The man’s submerged vehicle was found early Monday north of the bridge.

Millar said it might be a while before they know what caused the accident. He said the worker, whom he did not identify, will be remembered as a champion for safety and for his willingness to respond to any need at the Hood Canal Bridge.

Through Millar, the man’s family thanked the search crews and others for their help.

This story was originally published May 26, 2016 at 1:43 PM with the headline "Body of missing state bridge worker pulled from Hood Canal."