Lyle LEONARD Death, 1999

LEONARD, BENNETT

Posted By: Sharon R Becker (email)
Date: 5/8/2009 at 16:21:26

Tuesday, August 31, 1999

AUTOPSY SHOWS NO FOUL PLAY IN MAN'S DISAPPEARANCE

by Ric HANSON, KJAN, Atlantic, Cass County, Iowa

The Ringgold County Sheriff says an autopsy found no foul play in the death of a Clearfield man. 46-year-old Lyle LEONARD had been missing for more than a month when his body was found Monday east of Mount Ayr alongside Highway Two. Ringgold County Sheriff Bob BENNETT says the medical examiner ruled LEONARD died of possible alcohol poisoning and heat exposure. BENNETT says LEONARD's wallet and other possessions were found on his body untouched.

There was speculation that a couple with LEONARD on the night he disappeared may have been involved in LEONARD's death. BENNETT says they are not suspects.

BENNETT says things could've been wrapped up sooner, but an early search just missed finding LEONARD's body.

BENNETT says the discovery of the body and the autopsy results should close the case.

Radio Iowa News