Mariano Kotrba, a 24-year-old male from Minooka, Illinois, was last seen on April 9, 2025. His disappearance prompted several search efforts over the following days. On April 15, 2025, a civilian member of a search team discovered his body in a wooded area west of Cemetery Road, near the Canadian National Railroad overpass along the I&M Canal Trail.
The body was found about 100 yards into the dense woods, along a deer path.
Authorities, including the Grundy County Coroner’s Office, Grundy County Sheriff’s Department, and Minooka Police Department, responded to the scene. Mariano Kotrba was pronounced dead shortly before 6 p.m. on April 15. A firearm was recovered near his body, and officials stated that his death appeared to be self-inflicted. No foul play was suspected, and there were no reports of arrests or suspects in connection with his death.
Kotrba’s family expressed gratitude for the community’s support during the search efforts. The coroner’s office urged the public to respect the family’s privacy during this difficult time. The investigation into his death remains ongoing, but authorities have not indicated any criminal involvement.
