In the spring of 2016, a story of concern and mystery unfolded, culminating in a tragic discovery. Brandon Bourbon, a 24-year-old male and a former running back for the University of Kansas and Washburn University, was reported missing on April 2nd. His family in Potosi, Missouri, grew worried when he failed to show up for church, an act they described as out of character for him.
Concern mounted as days turned into a week-long search for the former football player, with his family and friends canvassing areas and distributing missing person flyers. His sister noted that he had been acting a little unusual before his disappearance, but emphasized it was unlike him to leave without informing anyone of his whereabouts.
The search came to a heartbreaking end on April 8th. A farmer in a secluded area off Route AA, just north of Vienna, Missouri, discovered Bourbon's minivan on his riverfront property. Inside the vehicle, authorities found the body of Brandon Bourbon. The location was approximately 80 miles from his hometown, a detail that added to the sorrowful mystery of his final days. The discovery brought a devastating conclusion to the six-day search that had gripped his community and former teammates.
The Maries County Sheriff's Department conducted an investigation into the circumstances of his death. Their findings concluded that Brandon Bourbon had died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The official cause of death was ruled a suicide, and authorities stated there was no evidence of foul play. Consequently, there were no arrests made or suspects identified in connection with his death. The news sent a wave of shock and grief through his family, friends, and the football communities at both the University of Kansas and Washburn University, where he was remembered as a talented and hardworking player.
