La Crosse police are continuing their investigation into the death of 22-year-old graduate student Eliotte Heinz, who was found face-down in the Mississippi River. Authorities suspect no foul play in her death, as preliminary autopsy results have ruled out any criminal involvement. However, the investigation remains open for further examination. Heinz, a student at Viterbo University, disappeared over the weekend after a night out with friends. The last known footage of her showed her walking along the Mississippi River waterfront at around 3:30 a.m., heading toward her apartment, which was less than a mile away. Four days into the search, a fisherman found her body wrapped in duckweed near Brownsville, Minnesota, raising questions about the circumstances of her death.
The case has brought attention to the broader issue of river-related drownings, particularly among college students. A 2006 program called the University of Wisconsin River Watch reported that eight students drowned in the Mississippi River between 1997 and 2006 due to excessive drinking. The incident has also sparked discussions about campus safety and the risks associated with alcohol use near rivers. Heinz’s family has expressed their grief, stating that they are embarking on a path to healing. They have emphasized Eliotte’s character, describing her as a smart, funny, caring, and beloved daughter. The family has thanked the La Crosse community, Viterbo University, and the La Crosse Police Department for their support during this difficult time.
The investigation has involved multiple agencies, including the La Crosse County Sheriff’s Office, Houston County Sheriff’s Office, Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Vernon County Sheriff’s Office, La Crescent Police Department, Wisconsin Department of Justice, Division of Criminal Investigations, Fort McCoy Fire and Rescue, U.S. Fish and Wildlife, La Crosse Fire Department, La Crosse Dive and Rescue, Wisconsin DNR, Minnesota DNR, La Crosse County Medical Examiner Office, Southern Minnesota Regional Medical Examiner’s Office-Mayo Clinic, and Viterbo University. Authorities have stated that final autopsy results will take several months to complete, and the investigation is still open. The case remains a tragic example of the risks associated with alcohol use and the importance of campus safety measures, particularly near waterways. The Heinz family’s statement has resonated with many, highlighting the need for increased awareness and prevention efforts in similar settings.