The search for a missing 18-year-old following the discovery of a submerged vehicle in Deep River ended tragically on Thursday.
Conservation officers resumed operations early in the morning, using drones, sonar equipment, an ROV, and multiple dive teams. A rope system was also set up to allow divers to methodically search areas downstream from the original crash site.
At approximately 11:00 a.m., authorities confirmed a body was recovered in the water. The victim is believed to be 18-year-old Rodrigo Montes, who had been missing since Sunday night. Formal identification and the cause of death are pending from the coroner’s office.
A suspect is currently in custody, with charges pending. Due to the sensitive nature of the case, authorities have not released additional information regarding the suspect.
The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash remains ongoing. Authorities continue to ask anyone with information to contact the Lake Station Police Department.
The family of Rodrigo Montes expressed their gratitude to the community for its support: “Your prayers, shares, and efforts truly made a difference during such a difficult time. While this is not the outcome we had hoped for, we are grateful that the family can now begin to find closure. Please continue to keep his loved ones in your thoughts and prayers.”
The Lake Station Police Department also extended thanks to the Lake Station Fire Department, Crown Point and Hobart Dive Teams, Lake County Eagle Units, the Indiana Department of Natural Resources Dive Team, Hobart Police, Lake County Sheriff’s Office, Indiana State Police, NWI K9 Search and Recovery, all drone operation units, local businesses, and the public for their cooperation during the search.
