The office of Northwestern District Attorney David Sullivan confirmed on Wednesday night that the body found last weekend in the Connecticut River in Holyoke was that of Tsering Choephel.
Tsering ChoephelHADLEY - The family of Tsering Choephel is having visiting hours for friends and family Saturday night at 5 p.m. at the family’s 112 Bay Road home.
The office of Northwestern District Attorney David Sullivan confirmed on Wednesday night that the body found last weekend in the Connecticut River in Holyoke was that of Choephel. He was last seen leaving his Bay Road home on the morning of April 28. His car was later found in the parking lot of the Hampton Inn, and his wallet was in the front seat.
A statement issued by First Assistant Northwestern District Attorney Steven E. Gagne said Choephel’s identity was confirmed by the state Office of the Chief Medical Examiner through an examination of dental records. No other information was available.
Choephel, 46, a native of Tibet, lived in Hadley for the last several years with his family and worked at Whole Foods. His family issued a statement thanking the local Tibetan community -- many of whom had been searching for Choephel since his disappearance -- and Whole Foods Market management team leaders and members “for their outpouring of love and support."
“The family and the local Tibetan community are deeply saddened by the sudden disappearance and demise of Tsering Choephel,” the release reads.
The family is asking that the larger community be respectful of the family’s privacy, according to family spokesperson Thondup Tsering.
“The local Tibetan community members have been conducting community prayers at the family’s home for the last three weeks to offer collective prayers and support to the family,” the release said.