Body Found in Hastings; May Be linked To Missing Person Case
Authorities are investigating the death of a man whose body was discovered in a ditch Sunday morning in Hastings.
Law enforcement responded to a 911 call shortly before 10 a.m., finding the deceased man near the 1300 block of Ravenna Trail, east of a bridge crossing the Vermillion River.
William Eickholt, 74. via Minnesota BCA
The Hastings Police Department and Washington County Sheriff’s Office are leading the investigation, with assistance from multiple agencies, including the Dakota County Sheriff’s Office, the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, the State Fire Marshal division, and the Hastings Fire Department.
Investigators are seeking information from anyone who may have seen a vehicle stopped in the area between 2 a.m. Saturday and 9:50 a.m. Sunday. The identity of the man has not yet been confirmed, and the Hennepin County Medical Examiner’s Office will determine the cause and manner of death after an autopsy.
Authorities believe the incident may be linked to an ongoing investigation into a suspicious fire in Denmark Township.
Police responded to William Eickholt’s property in Denmark Township at 2:30 a.m. on February 1 following reports of a fire. Evidence found at the scene suggests Eickholt may have been injured, and a multi-agency search took place.
Anyone with information is urged to contact law enforcement. Further details will be released as the investigation progresses.
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