Eliotte Heinz Obituary, Death – A woman who had been reported missing from La Crosse and previously lived in Hortonville was found dead in the Mississippi River on Wednesday morning. According to La Crosse police, the Houston County Sheriff’s Department alerted them shortly before 10:30 a.m. that a body had been discovered near Brownsville, Minnesota. This location is approximately 13 miles south of La Crosse.
Authorities had been searching for 22-year-old Eliotte Heinz since she was reported missing on Sunday. The discovery marks a tragic end to the search effort that had gained support both locally and beyond.
La Crosse police stated that the investigation remains ongoing. Officials are currently awaiting the results of an autopsy, which will determine the official cause of death.
In a statement, La Crosse Police Chief Shawn Kudron expressed sorrow over the outcome. “This was not the outcome we had hoped for throughout this search,” Kudron said. “Our thoughts are with Eliotte’s family, friends and all those who knew her. We are grateful for the outpouring of support from so many within the La Crosse community, the State of Wisconsin, and nationally to locate Eliotte.”
The search for Heinz drew attention across the region, and community members had shown strong support in hopes of finding her safe. Authorities had been actively working leads since her disappearance was reported, and many volunteers and agencies assisted in the search efforts.
Though no foul play has been confirmed, the investigation will continue until more information is gathered and the medical examiner’s report is complete. As of now, officials have not released any additional details about how Heinz ended up in the river or the circumstances surrounding her disappearance.
The community is mourning her loss, and more updates are expected as law enforcement continues to gather details and follow up on the case.
