The search for 61-year-old Sherri Lee Monroe concluded in tragedy as her body was recovered from a river by the St. Louis County Rescue Squad. The Duluth Police Department had previously issued a plea for public assistance after Monroe was last seen in the Rices Point area around 10:30 p.m. on April 19. As confirmed by an official report from the Duluth Police Department, no foul play is suspected in the incident.
The initial call for help described Monroe as a Native American female, standing 5'2" and weighing 100 pounds; this description was part of a broader effort to engage the community in the search. Authorities have notified Monroe's family, and they, alongside the rescue squad, are now processing the grief of this loss. "Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Monroe family and friends as they are grieving her loss," the rescue squad relayed in an update.
During the days of searching, the police implored anyone with information regarding Monroe's disappearance to come forward and make contact with local law enforcement. The investigation that ensued, however, has ultimately led to this unfortunate outcome. Community members who volunteered and aided in the search reflected the shared sense of urgency and concern that pervaded the Rice's Point area throughout this period.
Sherri's sudden disappearance and the subsequent discovery of her demise highlight the ongoing issues related to missing persons cases, particularly among Native American communities.
