A man’s body was found floating in the Trinity River near Romayor on the morning of July 21, 2025. The Liberty County Sheriff’s Office has identified the deceased as 57-year-old Gary Don Ward of the Cleveland area.
Shortly after 9:00 a.m., the Sheriff’s Office Communications Division received a report of a possible body in the river near CR 2150, just north of FM 787. Deputies responded and met with a male witness who had discovered the body and guided them to the location. Upon arrival, deputies confirmed the presence of a deceased male floating in the water.
Due to the remote location and difficult terrain, access to the body was only possible by boat. Investigators from the Sheriff’s Office launched a Liberty County boat to reach the site. The Tarkington Volunteer Fire Department also responded and assisted with the recovery using their own boat.
Once the body was brought to shore, investigators confirmed the identity of the deceased as Gary Don Ward. Preliminary observations suggest he had been in the water for several days.
Pct. 3 Justice of the Peace Cody Parrish conducted the inquest and ordered the body be sent to the Jefferson County Medical Examiner’s Office for autopsy. Investigators plan to attend the autopsy, which is scheduled for later this week.
“Currently, the circumstances surrounding Mr. Ward’s presence in the river and the cause of death remain unknown,” said Captain David Meyers, spokesperson for the Liberty County Sheriff’s Office. “The investigation is ongoing and will be guided by the findings of the autopsy.”
Anyone with information regarding Gary Don Ward — particularly those who may have seen him in recent days or are familiar with his activities prior to the incident — is urged to contact the Liberty County Sheriff’s Office at 936-336-4500 and ask to speak with the Criminal Investigation Division.
Sending prayers to his family. Rip. Very sad
Just got out of jail 6/24/25. Rap sheet looks like a catalog.
Does he work here in Cleveland?
Look at his mugshots, over time, the many faces of meth. Poor soul, was struggling, obviously from the evil drug. God bless everyone who has been impacted by this drug. There are strict laws in place for fentynal, same should be for meth.
Your really gonna say that he looked like a meth user when the man just lost his life. His family dont want to read that bullshit
Prayers for his family, he was a hard working man and I’m so sorry for the family loss.
You will be missed 😢
You have earned your angel wings. for sure. RIP
Hey my name is Angie my name was Gary don ward he was found in the water someone told him for all of us nobody wants found what happens to him