A missing University of Michigan student has been discovered dead after last being seen walking alone without a coat.
Lucas Mattson, 19, was reported missing on January 23, according to the Ann Arbor Police Department, resulting in an “extensive 20-hour search” in extreme weather conditions.
His body was discovered at 12:05 p.m. local time with the assistance of the University of Michigan Police Department.
Police said he was last seen walking alone without a coat about 1 a.m. on Friday and reported missing 15 hours later.
His body was found roughly a six-minute walk from where he was last seen.
“There are no obvious signs of trauma, and foul play is not suspected at this time,” Ann Arbor police stated.
The cause of death is still being determined by the Washtenaw County Medical Examiner’s Office.
The state of Michigan is currently in an emergency state as a result of Winter Storm Fern, with officials warning of a life-threatening situation owing to harsh cold temperatures and significant precipitation.
According to Weather Underground, temperatures in Ann Arbor dropped to -15°F the night Mattson went missing.
As they searched for the missing student, Ann Arbor police stated that he was “considered endangered due to the extreme frigid conditions.”
Police have announced that they will offer crisis treatment to any students who learn of his death.
They are urged to utilize the following resources: Wolverine Wellness, University Health Service, and Counseling and Psychological Services.
“Ann Arbor Police Chief Andre Anderson and the Ann Arbor Police Department extend its deepest condolences to his family and loved ones, as well as the entire University of Michigan community,” police said.
