Tragic Discovery of LendingTree CEO Doug Levda
The barking of Doug Levda’s loyal Labradoodle led to an urgent search for the 55-year-old LendingTree CEO, who had gone missing while riding an ATV on his North Carolina farm. This information emerged from 911 records shared by local authorities.
Levda, a tech executive and father of three, was discovered on October 12, buried beneath an overturned ATV on his expansive 277-acre Mill Springs property, as reported by Polk County officials.
A call to 911 around 7:30 p.m. revealed that Levda had left home hours earlier without his cell phone, taking only his dog. The caller expressed urgency, saying, “The owner of this farm that has a pond is missing and we need you all.”
As the caller and others scoured the property, they heard barking in the distance. “I heard that dog! It barked once. It’s on that hill and there it is again,” the caller informed the dispatcher.
Police and medics arrived shortly after, locating Levda’s body approximately 35 minutes after the initial call. His dog was found nearby.
According to county officials, investigators found no indication of foul play in the incident.
Levda had purchased the large property along the river in July for $2.75 million, fulfilling a long-time dream of owning a rural retreat. He often balanced his time between Charlotte and his farm.
In light of his death, LendingTree expressed sorrow, describing it as a “devastating loss.” The company characterized Levda as a “visionary leader” whose impact on the financial services industry was profound. Scott Paley, the company’s president and COO, stepped in as Levda’s successor, while Steve Ozonian took over as chairman.
Paley shared his grief, saying, “The news of losing Doug was devastating,” while vowing to uphold Levda’s vision.
Levda’s widow, Megan, spoke emotionally about her late husband, calling him a caring and curious individual. She reflected on his contagious smile and inspiring presence, noting, “It’s impossible to deeply understand who Doug was and what he meant to all of us.”
A public memorial service took place on October 19 at Founders Hall in Uptown Charlotte, attended by Levda’s daughters, who shared heartfelt tributes to their father.
