BREAKING: Missing 22-Year-Old Grad Student Found Dead in Tragic Mississippi River Case
A devastating update has shaken the La Crosse, Wisconsin community. Eliotte Heinz, a 22-year-old graduate student at Viterbo University, was found deceased near the Mississippi River days after she was reported missing early Sunday morning.
According to the CBS News report and the La Crosse Police Department, Eliotte was last seen around 3:22 a.m. near the 500 block of Front Street South. The heartbreaking discovery has left her family, classmates, and the community in mourning.
“This Was Not the Outcome We Hoped For”
Police Chief Shawn Kudron addressed the public with a solemn statement:
“This was not the outcome we had hoped for throughout this search. Our thoughts are with Eliotte’s family, friends and all those who knew her. We are grateful for the outpouring of support from the La Crosse community and beyond.”
Family’s Emotional Message to Supporters
In a heartfelt Facebook post, Eliotte’s family expressed deep gratitude:
“Thank you. The outpouring of support in the search for Eliotte has been overwhelming. Your kindness, prayers, and encouragement gave us strength. Please continue sharing her story and, if in La Crosse, check any security footage from early Sunday between 2–6 a.m.”
They also shared donation options to support Eliotte’s parents, Shane and Amber, via Venmo and PayPal.
Investigation Ongoing
Authorities have not yet confirmed Eliotte’s cause of death. However, police are investigating developments in Brownsville, roughly 15 miles downriver, for possible connections. The community remains on edge, holding out for answers and justice.
Anyone with information, photos, or security footage from the area should contact the La Crosse Police Department immediately.
