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Man, 23, dies after jumping into Monongahela River

PITTSBURGH — A 23-year-old man died at a Pittsburgh hospital after he jumped into the Monongahela River early Sunday morning, police said.

The Allegheny County Medical Examiner's office identified the man as Sean Gittins.

According to Public Information Officer Sonya Toler, Gittins jumped into the river near Station Square shortly after 4 a.m. He had gone to a bar with a group of people, and when they returned to a boat he decided to go for a swim.

Toler said Gittins experienced trouble in the water. That's when people threw a line to Gittins, but attempts to save him were unsuccessful.

River rescue was called and Gittins was pulled from the water and taken to UPMC Mercy Hospital, where he was pronounced dead shortly before 6 a.m., officials said.

Gittins was an employee of the Gateway Clipper Fleet.

Terry Wirginis, owner of the Gateway Clipper Fleet, said, "Sean was a long-term, valued staff member. This is a tragedy we can't explain. Our hearts are with his family and his Gateway Clipper family."