Maine teen drowned during drinking party by river

August 23, 2004

NH Business Review Staff,

LITCHFIELD, N.H. (AP) – Police say a 17-year-old boy from Maine drowned Friday night during a drinking party by the Merrimack River. Litchfield Police Chief Joseph O’Brion said eight teens ranging from 14 to 17 were drinking beer and Southern Comfort around a bonfire and jumping into the river to swim.

After about half an hour, the teens noticed that Edward Cross of Bangor, Maine, was missing and started looking for him. One of the teens called a parent, who notified police. Police found Cross’s body in the river on Saturday morning. An autopsy confirmed he drowned.
O’Brion said police haven’t decided if they will press charges yet, but will likely do so if they find the person who supplied the liquor.
Cross was spending the summer with a friend in Litchfield. His father described his son as a strong swimmer.

More news from NHBR:

2026 BOB Awards Party Photos

Check out photos from the 2026 BOB Awards celebration, which was held on Thursday, March 12, 2026 at the Grappone Conference Center in Concord.

NH economist lowers forecast for 2026

A key New Hampshire economist has trimmed down to 2.2% his forecast for the growth in the state's economy this for 2026, citing lackluster consumer confidence and the uncertainty of the U.S. war against Iran.

The Bottom Line: Planet Fitness, Skillsoft and Itaconix

A roundup of news updates from public companies in NH and nationwide

Take 5: Senior housing, entry-level hiring and AI

NH Business Review's biweekly snapshot of business and industry statistics

NHBR About Town: Week of March 13, 2026

Business and event happenings around the state of NH

The Latest: Week of March 13, 2026

The Latest is a roundup of the comings and goings of the movers and shakers in NH's business community

Federal data: Outdoor recreation generates $4.2B for NH economy

The U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) earlier this month released its latest Outdoor Recreation Satellite Account data, reaffirming outdoor recreation as a major driver of New Hampshire’s economy and a significant contributor nationwide.

Digital Healthcare And Network Connection On Hologram Modern Vi

Executive Council pauses $773M federal rural health spending

The NH Executive Council paused the approval of $773 million in federal spending contracts for the “GO NORTH” rural health program Wednesday, March 4, putting the brakes on a major initiative of Gov. Kelly Ayotte after councilors said the contracts were rushed and needed more scrutiny.

Medical Icons And A Hand Highlighting The Plus Sign, Symbolizing

Health issues are starting earlier in the workforce

Employer health benefits costs are rising faster than inflation and wage growth, putting continued pressure on employer-sponsored plans. According to KFF’s 2025 Employer Health Benefits Survey, per-employee benefit costs increased 6% in 2025, with another 6.5% increase projected for 2026.