Body of Missing Grad Student Eliotte Heinz Found in the Mississippi River After Four-Day Search [WATCH]

The body of Eliotte Heinz, a graduate student at Viterbo University, was discovered in the Mississippi River on Wednesday, concluding a four-day search following her disappearance in La Crosse, Wisconsin, as reported by The New York Post.

Officials confirmed that Heinz’s remains were found near Brownsville, Minnesota, over 10 miles from where she was last seen.

Heartbreaking tragedy near Brownsville this morning. Thank you to the Houston County Sheriff’s office and #MN01 first responders for bringing closure to Eliotte’s family. Keeping all of her loved ones in my prayers today. https://t.co/2O6FUHVf5q

— Congressman Brad Finstad (@RepFinstad) July 23, 2025

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Heinz, 24, vanished early Sunday morning after spending the night out with friends at the Bronco Bar in downtown La Crosse. According to her companions, she left the bar around 2:30 a.m. to walk home.

Surveillance footage later showed her walking alone approximately 50 minutes later near the Mississippi River waterfront.

When Heinz failed to return to her residence and could not be reached, family members and friends alerted authorities. A search operation was launched with assistance from local police, community volunteers, and multiple agencies.

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Her body was recovered from the river mid-morning on July 24.

The La Crosse Police Department confirmed that the investigation remains active as they await autopsy results to determine the official cause of death.

In a public statement released by the family, they expressed their grief over the loss. “Eliotte’s walk home is finished. Unfortunately, our family’s walk down this new hard path is just beginning,” the statement read.

“She was smart, funny, caring, and loved fiercely by us. We are devastated that she is no longer with us. Our family will forever have a missing piece.”

Heinz was pursuing a graduate degree in the university’s mental health counseling program. Her mother, Amber Heinz, confirmed her enrollment and described her daughter as someone dedicated to helping others.

Viterbo University announced plans to hold a memorial service for Heinz during the fall semester, once students have returned to campus. University President Dr. Rick Trietley issued a statement following news of her death.

“There are no words that can ease the pain of losing someone so young, with so much life ahead of her,” Trietley said. “Our hearts go out to Eliotte’s family. We hold them in our prayers and stand with them in their grief.”

The family also thanked the La Crosse Police Department, the university community, and local volunteers for their efforts during the search. “They were an amazing light in an incredibly dark space,” the statement said.

Authorities have not indicated whether foul play is suspected and said further updates will follow pending medical examiner findings.

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