Missing College Student’s Body Found After He Was Last Seen ‘Walking Alone’ at Night in ‘Extreme’ Cold Weather

A University of Michigan student who disappeared during dangerously cold weather has been found dead, authorities in Ann Arbor said.

The body of 19-year-old Lucas Mattson was discovered at 12:05 p.m. local time on Saturday, Jan. 24, according to a statement from the Ann Arbor Police Department (AAPD).

Mattson was last seen at about 1 a.m. on Friday, Jan. 23, police said. Investigators reported that he was walking alone “without a coat” before he was later reported missing.

Police said the search stretched nearly 20 hours and unfolded in harsh conditions.

“The nearly 20-hour search effort to locate him took place in extreme cold conditions and included officers from AAPD and University of Michigan Division of Public Safety and Security, as well as the University of Michigan Police Department Drone Unit,” the AAPD said.

When Mattson was found, officers observed “no obvious signs of trauma,” police said, adding that foul play is not currently suspected.

Mattson was an engineering sophomore at the University of Michigan, according to the university’s independent newspaper, The Michigan Daily.

After authorities announced the discovery, the university’s Division of Public Safety and Security posted a statement on X: “It is with deep sadness that we share Lucas Mattson has been found deceased.”

“Our hearts are with Lucas’s family, friends, and all those who knew and loved him during this incredibly difficult time,” the statement continued.

Police said the Washtenaw County Medical Examiner’s Office (WCMEO) will conduct a post-mortem examination to determine the cause of death.

The AAPD had earlier issued a missing-persons report stating Mattson was considered at risk because of the area’s “extreme frigid conditions.”

Police also noted that crisis support is available to students through resources including Wolverine Wellness, University Health Service, and Counseling and Psychological Services.

The AAPD and the WCMEO did not respond to a request for comment on Sunday, Jan. 25, according to the original report.