Sam Heisel, the 15-year-old boy from Brentwood who had been missing since Tuesday, has been found dead in O’Fallon, Mo.
Authorities had been searching for Heisel since his family’s car was found crashed into a pole on Old Highway 79 and North Main Street in O’Fallon. Several suicide notes were reportedly located inside the wrecked vehicle.
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The family released the following statement confirming the teen’s passing;
“STATEMENT FROM THE HEISEL FAMILY RE. END OF SEARCH FOR SAMUEL ‘SAM’ HEISEL
With excruciating pain in our hearts, we share that Sam was found dead today in O’Fallon, Missouri.
Since Sam went missing last Tuesday, we have held out hope for his safe return. Hundreds of volunteers and law enforcement from throughout the region have supported the search. It was extensive. We all were determined. The outpouring of concern and support has been incredible. We thank everyone who has volunteered, reached out, prayed with us and prayed for Sam. Sam was a vibrant, loving, funny, smart 15-year old. He lit up the room with his smile. There are no words to capture how sorely we will miss him.
We ask for time and privacy as we turn from the search to grieving. Our hearts are broken. But, through the memory of Sam and with the love and support of our friends, families and the many, many others who have been there with us throughout … we will get through.
CONTACT:
Jill Friedman, friend of family
(314) 504-7012″
Police say suicide notes were found in the car at the time of the crash, but Heisel was nowhere to be found. Heisel broke up with his girlfriend and that the crash was near his girlfriend’s house. source