Authorities found the body of missing Wisconsin graduate student Eliotte Heinz in the Mississippi River, following four heartbreaking days of searching after she disappeared during a walk home from a local bar.
Eliotte, a student in the mental health counseling program at Viterbo University, disappeared early Sunday morning after leaving Broncos Bar around 2:30 a.m. Surveillance footage later captured her walking along the riverfront and heading in the direction of her apartment, which was less than a mile away. But she never made it home.
On Wednesday, authorities confirmed that her body was discovered in the Mississippi River near Brownsville, Minnesota, more than 12 miles from where she was last seen. Police are still investigating and waiting for autopsy results to determine the official cause of death.
“This was not the outcome we had hoped for,” La Crosse Police Chief Shawn Kudron said in a statement. “Our thoughts are with Eliotte’s family, friends, and all those who knew Eliotte.”
Eliotte’s mother, Amber Heinz, described her daughter as “beautiful inside and out,” adding, “She has got the biggest heart and unending kindness for everyone.” She also noted the overwhelming community response during the search. “I think that is noted by how many people have showed up for her,” she said.
Her disappearance sent shockwaves through the La Crosse area, prompting a multi-day search involving family, friends, volunteers, and law enforcement. Her phone was later discovered by friends, helping narrow the search efforts.
In a heartfelt message shared by Viterbo University, the Heinz family thanked the community: “The outpouring of support in the search for Eliotte has been overwhelming, and we are deeply grateful for the kindness, prayers, and encouragement from the community and beyond.”
Viterbo University President Rick Trietley expressed sorrow on behalf of the campus. “We are heartbroken by this loss and extend our deepest sympathies to her family and friends. There are no words that can ease the pain of losing someone so young, with so much life ahead of her.”
The university plans to hold a memorial service in Eliotte’s honor this fall, once students have returned to campus.
Questions remain surrounding the circumstances of Eliotte’s death. FBI investigators have been reviewing surveillance footage, speaking with witnesses, and checking for any phone or financial activity to determine what happened and whether she was alone.
The tragedy has also renewed concern about river safety in La Crosse, especially for students. Since 2006, a volunteer-based “River Watch” program has patrolled the area near the river during the academic year to prevent accidents. It’s unclear whether the program was operating the night Eliotte went missing, as the school year had not yet begun.
Eliotte’s loss is being deeply felt by her family, her university, and the wider La Crosse community. She was a bright, caring young woman with a future dedicated to helping others—and her memory will continue to inspire those who knew and loved her.
