GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. — Authorities have confirmed the death of Leroy Schmidt, a 51-year-old Minnesota man who had been missing for over six months. His body was found in Summit County, Colorado, according to a statement released by the Moorhead Police Department (MPD).
Schmidt was first reported missing in January 2025, though his last confirmed sighting was in Moorhead, Minnesota, on November 2, 2024. His disappearance spanned multiple jurisdictions, with his last known location previously traced to Las Vegas, Nevada, according to early missing person alerts.
Sparse Details Leave Questions Unanswered
At this time, law enforcement agencies have not released any information regarding the circumstances surrounding Schmidt’s death. It remains unclear how or when he died, how he ended up in Colorado, or whether foul play is suspected.
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Date last seen: November 2, 2024
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Date reported missing: January 2025
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Body discovered: May 2025 in Summit County, CO
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Jurisdictions involved: Moorhead Police Department, Summit County authorities
The confirmation of Schmidt’s death closes a months-long missing persons case that involved cross-state tracking, public alerts, and numerous unknowns.
Background and Timeline
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| Nov. 2, 2024 | Last confirmed sighting of Leroy Schmidt in Moorhead, MN |
| Jan. 2025 | Official missing person report filed |
| Early 2025 | Last known location identified as Las Vegas, NV |
| May 2025 | Schmidt’s remains discovered in Summit County, CO |
Family members and friends had been searching for answers for months, expressing growing concern over Schmidt’s well-being. With the discovery of his body, the focus has now shifted to uncovering the cause and manner of death.
Awaiting Investigation Results
Officials say the investigation is ongoing, and an autopsy has likely been scheduled. Schmidt’s death may prompt interagency collaboration between Colorado law enforcement, the Clark County (Las Vegas) authorities, and Moorhead Police to reconstruct his final months.
As of now, no further details have been released. Authorities are expected to provide updates pending results from the medical examiner or coroner’s office.
