Body recovered in Taunton River is Fall River man, family, friends, remember “heart of gold”

The body of a man found in the Taunton River Monday is 35-year-old Gary Amaral of Fall River.

A body washed up on the shore about 1.5 miles downriver from the area that was searched by the Dive Team Monday. Amaral was found in the area of Riverview Drive.

At 12:26 a.m. Sunday, Troopers from the State Police-Dartmouth Barracks responded to a call reporting a motorcycle in the middle of the roadway on the ramp from the Veteran’s Memorial Bridge (Route 6 eastbound) to Route 79 southbound. Investigation by responding Troopers led to the determination that Amaral was likely thrown over an embankment from the impact of the crash and fell into the water below.

Gary’s family and friends are coping with the sudden loss. His sister Carla reflected on the special person that her brother was.

“He has had his struggles throughout his life, but in recent years he had really lived his life, we are thankful for that, but also heartbroken to lose him now in this tragic way.”

Carla spoke on how giving, loving, and social Gary was.

“Anyone who knew my brother Gary knew he always spoke his mind, he had a heart of gold, and would do anything for anyone. He loved his family, friends, dogs, and had such a way with children. He loved the outdoors, biking with friends, fishing trips with his brother Peter, and get togethers for any reason as he loved to be social.

Gary was known to be quite the character. Even making others laugh at his own expense.

“You could always pick him out of a crowd. He had a love for clothes and sneakers like no other, matching from head to toe.”

This is the second time since June that a motorcycle rider has gone over the barrier in that area, prompting calls for the wall to be raised.