UPDATE: The Valley City Police Department has identified the dead man found in the Sheyenne River.

The subject’s name is Branden Elias, 22 years old, from Independence MN. Branden had been reported missing on 7-17-2023.

This case is still under investigation so if you have any information please contact the Valley City PD at 701- 845-3110.

Previously Reported: On 7/21/2023 the Valley City Police Department received a tip in regards to the male recovered from the Sheyenne River on 7/17/2023. The male was last seen in the area of Main St W/8th Ave SW walking towards the east on 7/15/2023 approximately 13:15 hours. At this time we do have an image of the male, and we are still asking for the public’s help in identifying the male.

If you know who the male subject is, please contact the Valley City Police Department at 701-845-3110

UPDATE: As of July 19, 2023 VCPD is still seeking the public’s help to identify the male found in the Sheyenne River. We can add a few details to the original descriptions. Subject was wearing blue jeans, a black belt, and 2 white socks, but each sock had a different color band around the top. Subject has a reddish ting of color in the beard, short, well groomed hair.

If you know of any person that match this description please contact us at 701-845-3110.

Earlier….

Media Release: Chief Phil Hatcher, Valley City, ND 58072

On 7-17-2023 at 1208 hours, VCPD and VCFD were dispatched to the area of 1000 Riverview Drive for a report of a human body in the Sheyenne River. VCFD water rescue was able to recover a male body a short time later.

At this time, we are not able to identify the remains and seek the public help. Subject description is white male, approximately 30-40 years old, dark short hair, beard, approximately 5’8″ to 5’10”,200 Ibs. No visible tattoos.

Subject was wearing blue jeans and socks only.

If you have any information that could help us, please call us at 701-845-3110.