- 22-year-old Eliotte Heinz was reported missing on July 20, 2025.
- Her body was recovered in the Mississippi River near Brownsville, MN.
- The La Crosse Police Department confirmed the discovery on July 23, 2025.
- An autopsy is pending to determine the official cause of death.
- Viterbo University and community members expressed deep grief over the loss.
The Big Picture
A tragic search has ended in heartbreak as authorities confirmed the death of 22-year-old graduate student Eliotte Heinz, whose body was found in the Mississippi River. Heinz had gone missing early Sunday morning after leaving a bar in La Crosse, Wisconsin. Her disappearance triggered a widespread search effort involving local and regional agencies.

What’s New
According to the La Crosse Police Department, Heinz’s body was discovered by the Houston County Sheriff’s Department at approximately 10:28 AM on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, in the river near Brownsville, Minnesota.
The police stated that the case remains under active investigation, and the official cause of death will be determined by a pending autopsy.
What They’re Saying
La Crosse Police Chief Shawn Kudron shared a statement expressing the department’s sorrow:
Viterbo University in La Crosse, where Heinz was a student, also issued a statement:
What’s Next
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances of Heinz’s disappearance and death. The results of the autopsy are expected to clarify how she died. Meanwhile, students and faculty at Viterbo University are planning memorial services to honor her life and legacy.
The Bottom Line
The untimely death of Eliotte Heinz has shocked the La Crosse community and beyond. As authorities work to uncover what happened, tributes pour in for a young woman remembered for her kindness, intellect, and potential.
Follow Virginia Times for regular news updates. Stay informed with the latest headlines, breaking stories, and in-depth reporting from around the world.
A global media for the latest news, entertainment, music fashion, and more.