BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) — A man died after he jumped into the Erie Canal in an attempt to evade police in Tonawanda early Thursday morning.

Police attempted to pull over a car just after 1:10 a.m. Thursday near Main Street and Niagara Street in Tonawanda. The driver proceeded over Renaissance Bridge into North Tonawanda.

Police then attempted a traffic stop on Webster Street in North Tonawanda before the person jumped into Erie Canal in an attempt to avoid police. During a rescue attempt the man went unconsciousness and was later pronounced dead at the hospital.

Police said it was discovered that the unidentified 36-year-old man had warrants out for his arrest from two other law enforcement agencies in Erie County.

According to department policy, the officers involved have been placed on paid administrative leave. The Erie County District Attorney’s Office and the state attorney general’s office have also been notified.

Aidan Joly was named News 4’s Digital Executive Producer in 2025. He has been on staff since 2022. He is a graduate of Canisius College. You can see more of his work here.

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