A nearly three-month search for a young man who disappeared while visiting Michigan State University ended Friday with the discovery of a body in the Red Cedar River, police said.
Authorities believe the body is Brendan Santo, 18, who was last seen leaving a residence hall late on Oct. 29.
“The Santo family has been informed and we are providing them with as much information and support as possible during this difficult time,” campus police said. “We are deeply saddened by this tragic loss. ... We still have no reason to believe foul play is involved or that Brendan intended to harm himself.”
Santo, a student at Grand Valley State University, was from Rochester Hills, a Detroit suburb. He disappeared during Halloween weekend on the eve of a big football game between MSU and Michigan.
Police said the body was found 1 1/2 miles from where Santo was last seen. The river flows through campus.
His disappearance was highly publicized, including announcements on the scoreboard during subsequent football games, and searchers repeatedly checked the river and surrounding areas. A reward for information that could solve the case was recently raised to $30,000.
“Our thoughts and prayers continue for Brendan’s family and friends as they deal with this tragic loss,” Grand Valley President Philomena Mantella said.
