A Northern California teenager who disappeared while allegedly doing research for a school project was found dead on Thursday – although foul play is not suspected, authorities said.
Parents of 16-year-old Dante de la Torre reported he went missing Wednesday while collecting soil samples near the Gold Run rest area near Interstate 80, officials said.
The remote wooded area is about 60 miles north of the California State Capitol in Sacramento, officials said.
The Colfax High School junior “was found dead this afternoon in a remote wooded area near” the rest area, according to a statement from the Placer County Sheriff’s Office Thursday.
“There is no indication that Dante’s death was a foul play,” although the coroner is still ready to investigate, the sheriff added.
“We offer our condolences to the de la Torre family and Dante’s friends during this incredibly tragic time.”
The disappearance of the student immediately caused a wave of concern within the community, forcing law enforcement and school officials to ask sympathizers not to search for themselvesfearing that such efforts would rattle the police dogs that were looking for him.
“Colfax High School, along with the entire Placer Union School District, is heartbroken to learn of the passing of Dante de la Torre, as reported by the Placer County Sheriff’s Office,” according to a statement from the school district. “Such tragedies, especially when they involve young people, are very difficult to deal with.”
Sara Mhaidli contributed.