Investigation into Student’s Death in Wisconsin River

Lacrosse, Wisconsin – Officials have stated there is no indication of foul play in the death of 22-year-old graduate student Elliot Heinz, whose body was discovered in the Mississippi River. Heinz had gone missing over the weekend before being found on Wednesday.

The Lacrosse Police Department reported that, following a preliminary autopsy, they do not suspect any criminal activity surrounding Heinz’s death.

Heinz, a student at Viterbo University, was last seen on Sunday morning after a night out with friends. Surveillance footage captured him walking near the Mississippi River just before 3:30 am, heading toward his apartment, which was less than a mile away.

A fisherman spotted Heinz’s body four days later as it was floating down the river in Brownsville, Minnesota. The circumstances that led to her body being in the water remain unclear.

The police stated that final autopsy results might take several months and that the investigation is ongoing.

In a statement, Heinz’s family expressed their sorrow while emphasizing their journey toward healing.

“Elliot was a wonderful person,” they said. “She had a quick wit, a compassionate heart, and was deeply loved by our family. We’re grappling with her absence and the profound sadness it brings, but we also want to acknowledge the support from friends and the community during this dark time.”