Nazir Bell Missing in Potomac River: 20-Year-Old Towson University Student Disappears

Search and rescue crews resumed operations Monday morning along the Potomac River near Great Falls following an extensive overnight effort to locate a 20-year-old university student who went missing while swimming on Sunday evening.

According to FOX 5 reporter Maureen Umeh, emergency crews temporarily suspended their search late Sunday night after several hours of continuous operations involving multiple agencies from Maryland and Virginia. Despite sustained efforts, the missing swimmer had not been located at that time.

The incident occurred near the Billy Goat Trail A and Sandy Landing areas shortly after 6 p.m. on Sunday, when emergency responders were called after reports of a swimmer in distress. Witnesses reported seeing the individual struggling in the water before disappearing from view.

Authorities identified the missing swimmer as Nazir Bell, a 20-year-old Towson University student from Germantown, Maryland. Family members and friends have confirmed his identity and continue to hope for his safe recovery as search efforts continue.

Officials said Bell was swimming in the river when he became separated from his group and was last seen wearing blue shorts. Emergency crews responded immediately, but he did not resurface, prompting a large-scale search and rescue operation.

The response has included coordinated efforts from multiple agencies, including the Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service, Fairfax County Swift Water Rescue teams, and the U.S. Park Police. Search teams have deployed boats, shoreline units, and aerial support, including the Park Police Eagle 1 helicopter.

At peak operation, the search involved approximately eight boats and more than 40 rescue personnel. Teams have also utilized sonar and other water-based detection equipment in an effort to locate the missing student.

Authorities noted that the Potomac River near Great Falls presents significant hazards due to strong currents, submerged obstacles, and rapidly changing conditions, which have complicated search efforts. Officials continue to urge the public to avoid restricted and dangerous areas along the river.

As of Monday, search operations remain ongoing, with crews continuing to scan the river and surrounding terrain. Authorities have emphasized that the mission remains focused on locating Nazir Bell and providing answers to his family and loved ones.

The community continues to express concern and support as search efforts persist, while officials reiterate the importance of water safety awareness in high-risk areas such as Great Falls.