LA CROSSE, WI — The heartbreaking search for 22-year-old graduate student Elliott Hines has come to a tragic end. Authorities confirmed that Elliott, who vanished after a night out in downtown La Crosse, has been found dead.
Elliott was last seen on Sunday near the waterfront after leaving a bar where she had been spending time with friends. Her sudden disappearance sparked widespread concern, drawing in hundreds of volunteers and countless messages of support as her family and local law enforcement launched an intensive search.
The young woman’s phone was recovered shortly after her disappearance, triggering a city-wide effort that included flyer distributions, surveillance footage reviews, and coordinated search parties. Despite the best hopes of her loved ones, the news they had feared most arrived.
The La Crosse Police Department confirmed that a body matching Elliott’s description was discovered in an area near the waterfront—close to where she was last seen. While formal identification and autopsy results are pending, police have informed the family and the public of the tragic development. Foul play is not suspected at this time, though the investigation remains ongoing.
Elliott Hines was a bright, compassionate, and driven young woman in her second year of graduate studies. Known for her intelligence, empathy, and deep involvement in her academic and local community, Elliott touched the lives of many. Her loss has sent shockwaves through the university and beyond.
“Our hearts are shattered,” said her mother in a statement. “We are grateful for the love and support we’ve received, and we ask for privacy as we try to come to terms with this unimaginable loss.”
The university and local organizations are offering grief support resources to students, friends, and others impacted by Elliott’s passing. A candlelight vigil is expected to be organized in her memory in the coming days.
As the La Crosse community mourns, they also remember a young woman full of potential, compassion, and light—gone far too soon.
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