Michigan State University announced on Friday, Jan. 21, that Brendan Santo’s body was discovered in the Red Cedar River about 1.5 miles from where he was last seen in October.

On Oct. 29, Santo arrived in East Lansing, Michigan, to visit friends for the Michigan State University and University of Michigan football match. He was last seen leaving Yakeley Hall on MSU’s campus.

“We are saddened to share that after more than two months of extensive searching using countless resources and support from so many of you and members of the public from nearly every corner of the state and country, MSU Police and Public Safety has recovered a body believed to be Brendan Santo from the Red Cedar River,” Michigan State University President Samuel Stanley said in a written statement. “While the news today may bring some closure to such a tragic incident, our hearts ache for the Santo family, Brendan’s loved ones and friends.”

MSU police inspector, Chris Rozman, reports recovering Santo’s body from the Red Cedar River around 12:30 p.m. on Friday. Currently, no signs of foul play have been reported in this investigation. 

Grand Valley State University, where Santo attended school, has also made an announcement regarding the alleged recovery of his body. 

“Our university role at this time is to support Brendan’s family, roommates, professors and friends,” GVSU President Philomena Mantella said in a written statement. “The death of any student in our community is painful and distressing.”

Share