The body of Elliot Heinz, a 22-year-old graduate student from Wisconsin, was found in the Mississippi River on Wednesday following an extensive four-day search. Authorities do not suspect foul play in her death, according to preliminary autopsy results released by the Lacrosse police.
While there were no indications of criminal involvement, the investigation remains ongoing as officials await the final autopsy results to determine the exact cause of death.
Heinz was studying in the Mental Health Counseling Program at Viterbo University and went missing early Sunday morning after leaving a gathering with friends at a local bar. Security footage captured her walking near the river shortly after she left around 2:30 a.m.
Her family reported her missing later that morning when they couldn’t reach her, prompting a thorough search effort that included both police and community volunteers. Tragically, her body was discovered about 10 miles downstream from Brownsville.
“This was not the outcome we hoped for,” stated Lacrosse Police Chief Sean Kudron after the sad news was confirmed.
The family expressed their heartbreak, describing Elliot as a beautiful and caring individual. They expressed gratitude to the volunteers and law enforcement for their relentless efforts during the search.
In a touching message, her family said, “We don’t understand why we were blessed to have her as our daughter and then can’t keep her.” They acknowledged the impact she had on their lives, saying, “Our family feels like a part of us is missing forever.”
Plans are already underway for a memorial service at the university when students return for the fall semester.
