Elkhart Mourns the Loss of Anthony Null, Found Dead in St. Joseph River

Elkhart Mourns the Loss of Anthony Null, Found Dead in St. Joseph River

Elkhart, IN — The city of Elkhart is mourning the tragic and unexpected loss of one of its own, Anthony Null, a 50-year-old resident whose body was recovered from the St. Joseph River on Thursday, July 17, 2025. The Elkhart Police Department has confirmed his identity, sending waves of grief and disbelief through the community that knew and loved him.

Authorities were called to the riverbank near the 300 block of Nibco Parkway on Thursday afternoon after a passerby reported seeing what appeared to be a body floating in the water. Emergency personnel from the Elkhart Fire Department and the Elkhart Police Department responded swiftly, retrieving the body from the river. Later that evening, the victim was identified as Anthony Null, a longtime Elkhart resident and beloved member of the community.

As the news of Anthony’s death spread, an outpouring of emotion flooded social media, with family, friends, and neighbors expressing shock, sorrow, and love. Those who knew him described Anthony as a kind-hearted, generous, and loyal man—a quiet soul who was always willing to lend a hand to someone in need. Though he preferred to stay out of the spotlight, his impact on others was deeply felt.

“He was the kind of person who would stop what he was doing just to help you, no matter how small the task,” said longtime friend Marlon Harris. “He didn’t have much, but what he had, he gave freely. You could count on Tony.”

Anthony was born and raised in Elkhart, graduating from Elkhart Central High School in the early 1990s. He worked a variety of jobs over the years, most recently in maintenance and landscaping, and was known for his strong work ethic and warm, if reserved, personality. Friends say he found peace in nature and often spent time walking along the river trail or fishing quietly on the banks of the St. Joseph River—a place he had long considered his personal refuge.

What makes this loss even more heartbreaking for the community is the uncertainty surrounding the circumstances of his death. At this time, the Elkhart Police Department has not released further details, only stating that an investigation is ongoing and that foul play has not been ruled out. An autopsy has been scheduled by the Elkhart County Coroner’s Office to determine the exact cause and manner of death.

“We are treating this case with the utmost seriousness and care,” said Chief of Police Chris Snyder. “We understand the community is hurting and seeking answers, and we are committed to finding those answers as quickly and thoroughly as possible.”

As investigators work to piece together the events that led to this tragedy, the Elkhart community has come together to honor Anthony’s memory. A vigil is being planned for Sunday evening near the river, where loved ones will gather to share memories, light candles, and pay tribute to a man whose life ended far too soon.

“We can’t begin to understand why or how this happened,” said Sandra Null, Anthony’s younger sister. “But we want the world to know he mattered. He mattered to us, and he mattered to this city. Tony had his struggles, like we all do, but he never lost his compassion. We just want justice, and peace for his soul.”

As the city of Elkhart processes this painful loss, residents are reminded once again of the fragility of life and the importance of community. Anthony Null may no longer walk the river trails he loved so dearly, but his spirit, kindness, and quiet strength will be remembered for years to come.

Anyone with information related to Anthony Null’s final days or any unusual activity near the St. Joseph River earlier this week is encouraged to contact the Elkhart Police Department. The family has also established a memorial fund to assist with funeral expenses and is asking for continued prayers and support.

In a time clouded by sorrow and uncertainty, Elkhart stands united, remembering Anthony Null not by the tragic circumstances of his death, but by the love and light he gave to those lucky enough to know him.