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PrintCOLUMBIA — A body discovered in a wooded area along Rock Quarry Road was likely Edward Acosta's, a medical examiner said Monday.
The Boone County Medical Examiner's office conducted an autopsy Monday but was waiting on further expertise and dental records from Acosta's previous hospital visit for confirmation, Assistant Medical Examiner Eddie Adelstein said.
Acosta was reported missing after leaving University Hospital on May 28 and was last seen leaving the Hampton Inn at 1225 Fellows Place a few hours later.
A hiker discovered the body Friday night at the foot of a bluff alongside Hinkson Creek. A hat, cell phone and a bag with paperwork belonging to Acosta were found at the top of the bluff.
The body had injuries consistent with a fall, and Adelstein said he did not suspect foul play. He hopes to confirm the body's identity on Tuesday.
A mixture of warm temperatures, dry air and exposure to insects and animals likely caused the fast decomposition of the body, Adelstein said, contributing to the need for further expertise from the MU Anthropology Department in order to verify the the identity.
The Columbia Police Department and the MU Police Department could not be reached for comment.
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Comments
I put a comment on here about a week ago. Where did it go. I didn't say anything that should have been offense to anyone. Just that I had become friends with Sheila his Ex-wife and Eddie when I worked and lived there for 13 years. I moved back to Columbia when my company lost the contract on Ft Wood. That was 5 years ago. When I learned he was missing I contacted many people from down there to see what I could do. I drove this town anytime I could looking for any clue as to his whereabouts.
Bill:
Your comment is right where you left it...
http://www.columbiamissourian.com/storie...
I really need someone from Mr. Acosta's family to contact Welcome Home. I have information that they need to know that would be helpful to them. If you know how to get a hold of their family, please email me at welcome@socket.net.
Also, please help Welcome Home build a new shelter for Mid-Missouri's Homeless Veterans. The recent rains forced us to evacuate 4 Disabled and Homeless Veterans and reinforces the urgent need we have for shelter.