The search for missing LSU freshman Kori Gauthier has come to a tragic end with the discovery of her body.
Gauthier was reported missing on April 7th when her car was abandoned on the Mississippi River bridge after another motorist accidentally crashed into it. Gauthier was not in her vehicle at the time of the crash, but her wallet and phone were inside. Baton Rouge police did not notify her family that the car had been located. Instead, they had it towed from the scene. The young woman was not reported missing until hours later when she failed to show up for work, class, or doctor’s appointment.
Since her mysterious disappearance, the LSU police, her family, and volunteers have searched diligently for Gauthier. Her photo has been shared thousands of times across social media platforms, with users pleading for her safe return.
The body was found in the Mississippi River in St. John the Baptist Parish on Tuesday by a tugboat crew member. On Wednesday, authorities confirmed that the remains located were that of Gauthier. Over the weekend, law enforcement officials announced that they did not suspect foul play. Since discovering her body, officials have confirmed that the evidence concludes that there was no foul play in Gauthier’s disappearance. While officials have not disclosed what evidence led them to their conclusion, they have shared that information privately with the family.
Spencer Gauthier, Kori’s uncle, who has led several searches for his niece, said that the family can now heal in a Facebook live stream.
“Never give up. As you guys can see, a nation of people came together for my niece. That same nation of people would come to your side. We’re all in this together.”
Days before Gauthier’s remains were found, cadaver dogs had picked up on her scent twice in the same area on the Mississippi River. However, at the time, the water was too dangerous for divers to enter.
