A New York man was found dead Saturday after he went missing while swimming with friends in a Maryland reservoir, according to Carroll County Sheriff's officials. 

The body of 20-year-old Smith Veras, from Queens, New York, was found after a massive search and rescue mission that began on Thursday, July 3. 

Swimmer goes missing in Maryland reservoir 

Veras was reported missing after he went underwater in the Liberty Reservoir, a 704-foot body of water west of Baltimore, according to sheriff's officials. 

Officials said Veras was visiting friends in Pikesville, Maryland, when the drowning occurred. 

"He and three friends were swimming, they went down and jumped in the water. They swam across to an island, and about halfway across, this gentleman, a 20-year-old Hispanic male, he started to go underwater," said Lt. Brandon Holland with the Carroll County Sheriff's Office. "He was last seen about halfway across."

Lt. Holland said the reservoir is a popular swimming spot for teens and young adults despite the fact that it is illegal. 

"It can go from three feet deep to about 70 feet deep," he said "...So, it is not safe, and again, it is illegal."

"No Swimming" warning signs are posted around the reservoir due to very rapid drop-offs, currents, and hidden rocks and branches, according to Baltimore's Department of Public Works.

The temperature also drops significantly in the reservoir's deep waters, which can lead to hypothermia.

Search for missing swimmer 

The extensive and coordinated search for Veras began on July 3, after his friends called for help, according to sheriff's officials. 

Rescue efforts continued on Friday, July 4, both in the water and along the shoreline. 

Numerous agencies responded, including the Baltimore Environmental Police, Delaware State Police and Maryland State Police Search Operations. 

On Friday evening, Lt. Holland told WJZ they were likely looking at a recovery mission. 

Dive teams recovered Veras' body on Saturday. 

No foul play suspected

Veras' family was provided with lodging in Maryland after they traveled from New York. They were notified of Veras' death. 

"We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of Smith Veras during this tragic time," the Carroll County Sheriff's Office 

Officers do not suspect foul play, but the incident remains under investigation.