A body that washed ashore near American Legion Drive in Keyport earlier this week has been identified as a missing kayaker.

Authorities have been searching for 74-year-old Zhenjiang Ding since he went missing on Oct. 23 while kayaking in the Raritan Bay.

“Our heartfelt condolences and deepest sympathies go out to the friends and family, for the loss of Mr. Ding,” police wrote in a statement.

Ding’s kayak and some belongings were said to have washed up near Cedar Street Park after he went missing. Friends say Ding was a skilled kayaker who modified his craft so it would be safer to use on the open water.