Body pulled from Santa Ana River identified

Authorities have identified the body of a man found in the Santa Ana River on Thursday morning.

Jesus Enrique Perez, 24, of Garden Grove, was pulled from the mud and brush in the middle of the dry riverbed after witnesses spotted it about 9:30 a.m.

Police said he drowned and that there were no signs of foul play. The river was full just a few weeks ago during heavy rainstorms.

Orange County sheriff’s deputies found Perez’ car parked near Fifth Street and Fairview Road in Santa Ana.

It’s not clear if Perez fell into the river or committed suicide, and there was no fishing equipment found on him or near the car, said Sheriff’s Department spokesman Jim Amormino. He had not been reported missing and there were no warrants for his arrest.

Police said they plan to continue to investigate.

Joseph Serna