Roxbury Community Mourns the Loss of Young Resident Found in Sunset Lake

Authorities Confirm Accidental Drowning of 20-Year-Old Altariq Hickson

Morristown, NJ – In a somber announcement, Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, Chief of Detectives Robert McNally, and Roxbury Police Chief Dean Adone have confirmed the tragic end to the search for 20-year-old Altariq Hickson. 

The young man, a resident of Roxbury, was last seen at his home on March 6, 2024, and was officially reported missing six days later, sparking an intensive investigation by local authorities.

After a meticulous search, Hickson's personal belongings were discovered on Mine Hill Beach, prompting an extensive search operation involving the Morris County Sheriff’s Office K-9 Unit and the Morris County Office of Emergency Management. 

The effort culminated on March 19, when the New Jersey State Police recovered a body from Sunset Lake, subsequently identified as Hickson by the Morris County Medical Examiner’s Office (MCMEO).

The MCMEO has determined the cause of death to be an accidental drowning, providing some closure on the circumstances of Hickson's untimely demise, though the investigation continues. 

Despite the current findings, law enforcement remains committed to uncovering the full story of Hickson's final days and has declared the incident non-suspicious at this juncture.

This tragedy has undoubtedly cast a shadow over the Roxbury community, prompting reflections on the importance of safety and vigilance in the area's scenic locales.

The ongoing investigation is a collaborative effort between the Roxbury Township Police Department, the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit, and the MCPO Missing Persons Unit.

Authorities are urging anyone with information that might contribute to the investigation to come forward and contact the Roxbury Police Department at 973-448-2100 or the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office at 973-285-6200. 

In this difficult time, the community's support and cooperation are invaluable as both law enforcement and Hickson’s loved ones seek understanding and closure in the wake of this profound loss.