Chance Englebert, a 25-year-old father from South Dakota, vanished in July 2019 after what witnesses described as a family dispute in Gering, Nebraska. Englebert reportedly left the house on foot following the argument and was last seen walking near a local intersection. Despite extensive searches, no trace of him was found for nearly four years.
In October 2023, human remains were discovered near the North Platte River within the Scotts Bluff National Monument boundaries. DNA analysis later confirmed the remains belonged to Englebert. According to an official statement from the Scotts Bluff County Sheriff’s Office, the investigation concluded that Englebert’s death was accidental and resulted from drowning. No signs of foul play were detected.
Englebert’s family, who had held numerous public vigils and search efforts since his disappearance, expressed both grief and relief at gaining closure. They thanked investigators and volunteers who kept his case in public awareness for years.
“We finally have some answers, though our hearts are still broken,” a family spokesperson said.
Authorities closed the case following the confirmation of his identity and determination of the cause of death.
The case of Chance Englebert, missing since 2019, concluded with confirmation that he drowned accidentally near the North Platte River in Nebraska, bringing closure to years of uncertainty.