Police: Body found is Philbin's

OSHKOSH - Oshkosh police confirmed the news this morning.

"The body recovered from the Fox River is positively identified as Michael Philbin," said Oshkosh Police Chief Scott Greuel.

Philbin was spotted falling through the ice around 2:30 Sunday morning. A security guard at a nearby manufacturing plant heard Philbin's calls for help and called 911.

(911 call) "Caller: "I need anybody, I am at the end of Rockwell Avenue, there is a guy in the river, he fell through the ice.

911 Operator: "Is he drowning or did he intentionally go out there?"

Caller: "Yes, yes, he needs help right now he is out there."

The ice was extremely thin Sunday morning when Philbin fell in. Sheriff John Matz says the recovery was hampered by issues with water quality and current at the bottom of the river.

"I do not believe the ice went all the way across the river, and it would not have been safe for anybody to be on the ice," said Matz.

Greuel says Philbin made a call on his cell phone at 2:10 Sunday morning from a location near the Fox River where his body was found. Greuel says Philbin made the call to his friends but at the time Philbin was not in any danger. Greuel says that call was made just 26 minutes before the security guard spotted him in the river.

"The person heard someone yelling for help in distress and saw what appeared to be a head sticking up out of the water and as officers were arriving we received information that perhaps a person went under," said Greuel.

Greuel says Philbin was out with friends Saturday night when they became separated. The friends returned to the home in Oshkosh where Philbin was visiting, but he never returned.

"At this point we are considering this an on-going investigation as we continue to put together a timeline of events leading up to his disappearance," said Greuel.

Foul play is not suspected in Philbin's death. An autopsy was performed today. Results and toxicology reports won't be available for several weeks.

The Packers organization released the following statement from Joe Philbin: “We love Michael so much and will miss him dearly. He loved his family, friends and life. His memory will live on in the hearts and minds of all who knew him. We are appreciative of the prayers and the support of our family, friends and the Packers family. We ask for continued respect and privacy for our family as we deal with our loss.

“Our family also wants to thank the Oshkosh Police Department, Winnebago County Dive/Rescue/Recovery Team and the Winnebago County Coroner’s office for their efforts and compassion during this difficult ordeal.”

Packers general manager Ted Thompson also released a statement which read, "The Packers family was saddened to learn of the passing of Michael Philbin, son of offensive coordinator Joe Philbin. Our thoughts and prayers are with Joe, his wife, Diane, and the Philbin family as they cope with their loss. This is an emotional and difficult time for them, and we ask that everyone respect their privacy. All of us in the Packers family share in their grief."

Ripon College also released the following statement: "The Ripon College community mourns the tragic loss of Michael Philbin '13. We extend our most heartfelt sympathy to his family and friends during this extremely sad and trying time. As we begin second semester, and in consultation with his family, we will consider how best to honor his place in the college community."