Authorities believe they found the body of a 14-year-old North Carolina boy who disappeared while swimming with a friend on Monday.

FOX Carolina reports that Ethan Britt’s body was found at around noon on Friday, below the Spencer Mountain Dam in Gaston County, downstream from the area the boy was last seen, according to police. Ethan’s friend, David Winder, managed to grab a tree pull himself onto to an island in the middle of the South Fork River after the two boys were swept under by rising waters.

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David told first responders that he was with Ethan but lost him once the water swept them under.

“They were caught in this water just before it peaked at close to 15 feet. So, it was at its highest point when they were out there in it,” officials said, according to NBC 4.

Multiple agencies became involved in the search for several days. Officials are currently awaiting results for positive identification.

“Please continue to pray for Ethan, his family, and our responders during this difficult time,” said Assistant Chief C.J. Rosselle.

The story is developing. Check back with CrimeOnline as additional details become available.

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[Feature Photo: Ethan Britt/Handout]