Medford police release update on search for missing person

MEDFORD, Wis. (OnFocus) – After eight days of an intense search, the body of Martevius D. Watts has been found. Martevius was last seen on Thursday, October 10, 2024, and despite air and ground searches, no trace of him was found until Friday, October 18. Sadly, his body was discovered in the river near Mill Pond at around 9.13pm. .

Throughout the week, dedicated teams, including Wings of Hope, Christian Aid Ministries Search & Rescue and several others, worked tirelessly to find Martevius. On October 18, the water level at Mill Pond was lowered to facilitate the search, and teams conducted extensive ground, air and water searches in the surrounding area.

The Medford Police Department, as well as the Taylor County Sheriff’s Office and other agencies, expressed their deepest condolences to Martevius’ family and friends. Chief Chad M. Liske expressed his heartfelt thanks to the numerous volunteers and organizations that assisted in the search, including North Star Search and Rescue, Wisconsin K9 SOS Search and Rescue and the Marathon County Sheriff’s Office Dive Team. They say the community’s support has been invaluable during this difficult time.

The Medford Police Department will continue to investigate while working to provide closure for Martevius’ loved ones. If anyone has any additional information regarding this case, please contact the Taylor County Sheriff’s Dispatch Center at 715-748-2200 ext. 5.

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