Body of Missing Northern Michigan University Student Found in Marquette Harbor

The Marquette Police Department confirmed on April 24, 2026, that the body of Trenton Massey, a 21-year-old Northern Michigan University (NMU) student who had been missing since late February, was recovered from the Lower Harbor in Marquette, Michigan. The discovery was made by volunteers from Hybrid Robotics, a Traverse City-based company specializing in underwater remotely operated vehicles (ROVs).

Discovery and Recovery Efforts

Massey’s body was located at approximately 3:30 p.m. On April 24, submerged in the waters of the Lower Harbor, north of the Shiras Dock. The Marquette Police Department stated in an official release that the recovery was assisted by volunteers from Hybrid Robotics, who deployed their underwater ROV technology to aid in the search. The Marquette County Sheriff’s Office subsequently retrieved the body, which was transported to UP Health System-Marquette for an autopsy.

The search for Massey had been extensive, involving multiple agencies and volunteers who conducted operations on land, air, ice, and water. Despite these efforts, the search was suspended on February 25 after four days of intensive investigation. The discovery of Massey’s body nearly two months later brought a tragic end to the community’s prolonged search.

Timeline of Massey’s Disappearance

Trenton Massey was last seen on surveillance footage at approximately 3:08 a.m. On Sunday, February 22, 2026. According to the Marquette Police Department, he was walking east on a bike path near the 7th Street Bridge in downtown Marquette. Massey, who was wearing a black and olive-green coat, appeared to be disoriented and having difficulty walking, as noted in police reports from February.

At the time of his disappearance, Massey was attempting to return to his residence on McMillan Street. He was later spotted near East Baraga Avenue and the Founder’s Landing boardwalk, an area adjacent to the harbor. The National Weather Service reported inclement weather in Marquette on the night of his disappearance, including snow and strong winds, which may have contributed to the challenging conditions.

Community Response and Support

Massey’s disappearance sparked an outpouring of support from the Marquette community and beyond. Hundreds of volunteers, including NMU students, staff, alumni, and local residents, participated in search efforts. A GoFundMe campaign launched by Kelly Grinnell of Owosso to support Massey’s family raised over $61,800 by the evening of April 24, reflecting the widespread concern and solidarity.

Corunna High School, Massey’s alma mater, held a prayer vigil following his disappearance. John Fattal, superintendent of Corunna Public Schools, released a statement in February expressing the community’s hope for Massey’s safe return. Massey, a graduate of Corunna High School, was remembered as a dedicated student and member of the community.

Ongoing Investigation

The Marquette Police Department has stated that the investigation into Massey’s death remains ongoing. Authorities have not released details about the cause of death, pending the results of the autopsy. The community has been urged to respect the family’s privacy during this difficult time.

Key Takeaways

• Discovery: Trenton Massey’s body was found in Marquette’s Lower Harbor on April 24, 2026, by volunteers from Hybrid Robotics.
• Timeline: Massey was last seen on February 22, 2026, walking near the 7th Street Bridge in downtown Marquette.
• Search Efforts: The search involved multiple agencies and volunteers, spanning land, air, ice, and water.
• Community Support: A GoFundMe campaign raised over $61,800 for Massey’s family, and hundreds of volunteers participated in search efforts.
• Investigation: The cause of death has not been determined, and the investigation is ongoing.

FAQ

Who was Trenton Massey?

Trenton Massey was a 21-year-old construction management student at Northern Michigan University. He was a graduate of Corunna High School in Shiawassee County, Michigan.

When and where was Trenton Massey last seen?

Massey was last seen on surveillance footage at approximately 3:08 a.m. On February 22, 2026, walking east on a bike path near the 7th Street Bridge in downtown Marquette.

How was Trenton Massey’s body found?

His body was discovered by volunteers from Hybrid Robotics, a Traverse City-based company that manufactures underwater ROVs. The body was located in the Lower Harbor, north of the Shiras Dock.

What was the community’s response to Massey’s disappearance?

The Marquette community, including NMU students, staff, alumni, and local residents, rallied to support search efforts. A GoFundMe campaign raised over $61,800 for Massey’s family, and Corunna High School held a prayer vigil in his honor.

What happens next in the investigation?

The Marquette Police Department has stated that the investigation into Massey’s death is ongoing. An autopsy has been conducted, but the results have not been released to the public.

A Community in Mourning

The recovery of Trenton Massey’s body marks the end of a painful chapter for his family, friends, and the Marquette community. While the circumstances surrounding his death remain under investigation, the outpouring of support and solidarity during the search efforts underscores the impact he had on those around him. As the community mourns, authorities continue to function toward providing answers for Massey’s loved ones.