NEW ORLEANS — The body of New England Patriots defensive end Marquise Hill was found yesterday, a day after he was reported missing following a personal watercraft accident on Lake Pontchartrain.

Hill's body was discovered by searchers about a quarter of a mile from where the 24-year-old former LSU star and a female companion were involved in the accident.

"We have suffered a stunning and tragic loss," Patriots coach Bill Belichick said in a statement. "Marquise will be remembered as a thoughtful and caring young man who established himself as one of the year-round daily fixtures of our team."

Loved ones, including Hill's fiancee Inell Benn, waited anxiously along the shoreline as the search went on. They consoled one another when authorities told them Hill had been found dead.

"Right now's a terrible time," Benn said. "I don't know what to feel right now."

Hill's agent, Albert Elias, said he had been told Hill and a young woman were on the lake Sunday when both of them went into the water, which had a strong current. Authorities said the woman was able to make it to a pylon and hang on, while Hill was last seen floating away.