Body Found in Providence Confirmed To Be Missing Brown Student Sunil Tripathi

The body of a man pulled from the Providence River this week is that of missing Brown University student Sunil Tripathi, the state Department of Health confirmed Thursday.

"The past 38 days remind us of the fragility of our families, communities, and country. Our family and friends and many new friends keep us going, as does our love for Sunny," the Tripathi family wrote on a Facebook page that was created to help find Sunil.

Tripathi's aunt, who lives in Newton, Mass., was the last family member to be in contact with Tripathi. The pair texted each other on the evening of March 15, according to a report on Boston.com.

In a statement issued today, the Tripathi confirmed that Sunil's body was discovered in the waters off India Point Park in Providence, R.I.

"As we carry indescribable grief, we also feel incredible gratitude. To each one of you–from our hometown to many distant lands–we extend our thanks for the words of encouragement, for your thoughts, for your hands, for your prayers, and for the love you have so generously shared," the family said in a statement. 

The Tripathi family remained optimistic for Sunil's return since he walked out of his apartment on the East Side of Providence on March 16, leaving his his cellphone, credit card, ID, and other personal items at home.  

the Boston Marathon bombing suspect after his name was reportedly heard over the Boston Police radio.  His mother, Judy Tripathi, described the long night before the bombers were identified as "heart-wrenching and exhausting."

"This last month has changed our lives forever, and we hope it will change yours too. Take care of one another. Be gentle, be compassionate.  Be open to letting someone in when it is you who is faltering. Lend your hand. We need it. The world needs it," the family's statement read.

Officials said the cause of Tripathi's death is still under investigation.