Continuing Efforts to Find the body of Zy'Jae

Rescue teams returned to the Genesee River Monday in a continued effort to recover the body of 5‑year‑old Zy’Jae St. Pierre, nearly one week after he fell from the Andrews Street Bridge.

Five-year-old Zy’Jae St. Pierre fell into the Genesee River, Sunday, June 1, 2025

Authorities report the child climbed over the railing onto the bridge’s ledge around 4:40 p.m. on Sunday, June 1, and plunged approximately 50 feet into the water below

In the days since, Rochester Police and partners have treated the operation as a recovery mission.

Rochester Police Chief David Smith described the operation as hazardous. “Any dive operation … is inherently dangerous,” he said, noting zero water visibility and strong current flows

A multifaceted team — including police divers, drones, boats, helicopters, and sound‑navigation technology — has been deployed to scan the riverbed. Efforts have also reached northward toward the High and Middle Falls, and downriver near Ontario Beach Park

Collaborating agencies, including Rochester Gas & Electric, state and federal officials, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, have been working to temporarily lower river flows. Water control measures at the Mount Morris and Court Street dams are designed to give search crews better visibility and safer conditions

Community members have expressed solidarity with the family. Fundamental to the city’s response, neighbors, church leaders and Zy’Jae’s daycare hosted a red balloon release and prayer gathering Friday evening at Sunshine Village Childcare Center on Lee Road

Hundreds of balloons and candles were also placed at the Andrews Street Bridge over the weekend

“There’s nothing for someone to come out of their car crying,” said community member Dr. Cynthia Anderson

Authorities have warned the public about fraudulent fundraising campaigns and noted only two GoFundMe pages have been officially authorized by the family .

Mayor Malik Evans urged compassion and patience: “This should be about the family and their needs … we need to make this all about them and Zy’Jae”

Search operations are expected to continue through the week with ongoing river patrols and diver teams. Officials are also asking boaters, fishermen and waterfront users to remain vigilant and immediately report any sightings to an emergency number.