Finksburg, Md — The body of a 20-year-old swimmer from New York was recovered from Liberty Reservoir on Saturday, July 5, 2025, after he went missing while swimming.
According to the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office, Smith Veras disappeared beneath the water and did not resurface on Thursday, July 3. A search operation was immediately launched.
Multiple agencies assisted in the effort, including the Baltimore Environmental Police, Maryland State Police Search Operations, the Natural Resources Police Dive Team, the Howard County Fire Department Search Operations, and the Gamber and Community Fire Company.
After two days of searching, Veras’s body was found and recovered. Authorities say there is no indication of foul play at this time, though the investigation remains ongoing.
Veras’s family, who had been visiting from Queens, New York, was notified of the recovery.
In a statement, the Sheriff’s Office expressed sympathy, saying, “We extend our condolences to the family and loved ones of Smith Veras during this tragic time.”
