Phys Ed Teacher's Body Found in Bahamas Harbor

Naugatuck man was on vacation when he went missing

By DEBRA BOGSTIE

Updated 8:40 AM EST, Wed, Jan 7, 2009

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The family of a 30-year-old Waterbury physical education teacher is grieving and authorities are investigating after his body was found in the harbor outside a resort in the Bahamas.

Tim Massa was in the Bahamas on vacation, celebrating the New Year, went he went missing.

He spent Saturday partying with his brother, Jeffrey, and two friends, his brother Chris said Tuesday during a news conference at the family's Naugatuck home.

"This is a difficult time," he said. "Losing a loved one is not easy."

Tim left the group to return to his hotel room early Sunday morning to sleep before catching an early flight. When Jeffrey checked on his brother hours later, he found Tim's cell phone, luggage and room key in his room, Chris said. There were no immediate signs of foul play.

He searched for Tim and notified hotel security, which called police.

Monday night, Tim’s body was found in a harbor at the Atlantis Resort and Hotel in Nassau.

Authorities are investigating the case as a possible homicide, but have not ruled out other causes.

Tim was a seasoned traveler who had visited more than 80 cities around the world, his family said. He had never missed a flight before, which immediately raised concerns among family members, Chris said.

Tim Massa worked at the Waterbury Arts Magnet School as a physical education teacher for five years, school officials said.

The school planned to hold a moment of silence for the teacher Tuesday afternoon. Grief counselors are available to faculty, staff and students.