The body of Robert Loren Bacon, a 52-year-old father from Byron, Michigan, who vanished during a family holiday gathering, has been recovered from the Cass River. Dive teams located Bacon’s body on Saturday, January 4, 2025, at approximately 2 p.m. local time near Heritage Park in Frankenmuth, Michigan. The Frankenmuth Police Department confirmed the discovery, bringing a somber end to a week-long search.
Tragic Discovery Ends Holiday Gathering Search
Bacon was last seen alive on Friday, December 27, 2024, at a family gathering held at the Bavarian Inn Lodge in Frankenmuth. He was reported missing on Monday, December 30, 2024, prompting an extensive search effort involving local authorities and community members. The discovery of his body in the Cass River has devastated his family and friends.
Preliminary Cause of Death Ruled as Drowning
While the investigation is ongoing, preliminary findings indicate that Bacon’s cause of death was drowning. The Saginaw County Medical Examiner’s Office will conduct a full autopsy to determine the official cause and manner of death. The Frankenmuth Police Department, along with the Frankenmuth community, first responders, and the Bavarian Inn Lodge, have expressed their deepest condolences to Bacon’s family and friends during this difficult time.
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Family’s Heartbreak and Gratitude for Support
Bacon’s ex-wife, Melissa McLenna, shared her grief and gratitude on Facebook, thanking those who participated in the search and offered prayers for the family. The couple’s two daughters, ages 15 and 13, have been deeply affected by their father’s disappearance and death. McLenna had previously spoken about the girls’ anguish and their constant questions about their father’s whereabouts. The family is now grappling with the immense loss and trying to navigate this challenging period.
Remembering Robert “Loren” Bacon: A Navy Veteran
Bacon, a Navy veteran, was known to go by his middle name, Loren. He arrived at the family gathering at the Bavarian Inn Lodge around 6:40 p.m. local time on December 27th. He reportedly went to his hotel room to change his shoes and intended to meet his daughter at the pool area. Security footage showed him going to the fun center after leaving his room, but there was no footage of him exiting the building. However, it was noted that there were exits without cameras.
Unanswered Questions Remain in Ongoing Investigation
While the discovery of Bacon’s body provides some closure, many questions remain unanswered. McLenna shared details about Bacon’s last known movements and his personality, mentioning his love for nature and his habit of walking along riverbanks. She emphasized that it wouldn’t be unusual for him to go outside for a cigarette and stroll by the river. Police found nothing suspicious in Bacon’s car, and his phone had been off since the night he disappeared. Investigators continue to piece together the events leading up to Bacon’s death to provide a clearer understanding of what happened.
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The Search for Answers Continues
As the investigation progresses, authorities are working diligently to determine the circumstances surrounding Bacon’s death. The community remains in mourning, offering support to the grieving family. While the discovery of his body brings closure to the search, the pain of loss and the quest for answers will continue for Bacon’s loved ones. The Frankenmuth Police Department urges anyone with information related to the case to come forward and assist with the investigation.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Robert Loren Bacon Case
Q: Where was Robert Loren Bacon last seen?
A: He was last seen at the Bavarian Inn Lodge in Frankenmuth, Michigan, on December 27, 2024.
Q: When was his body found?
A: His body was recovered from the Cass River on January 4, 2025.
Q: What is the suspected cause of death?
A: Preliminary reports indicate drowning as the cause of death, pending confirmation from the medical examiner.
Q: Was there anything suspicious about his disappearance?
A: No suspicious activity was found in his car, and his phone was off since the night he went missing. The investigation is ongoing.
Q: How can I help?
A: If you have any information related to the case, please contact the Frankenmuth Police Department.
