Items Belonging to Missing Wyoming Man Found with Skeletal Remains in Nebraska, Authorities Say
NORTH PLATTE, NEBRASKA — Authorities in western Nebraska have discovered human skeletal remains alongside personal belongings belonging to Chance Englebert, a Wyoming man who vanished in 2019. The discovery has renewed hope for answers in one of the region’s most enduring missing person cases.
Discovery Near Scotts Bluff National Monument
According to the Gering Police Department, the remains were found earlier this week on the north side of Scotts Bluff National Monument after a passerby noticed what appeared to be bones. Law enforcement confirmed that the remains were human, and several items located nearby were identified by Englebert’s family as belonging to him.
The Scotts Bluff County Attorney’s Office confirmed Thursday that relatives of Englebert — who was last seen alive on July 6, 2019 — recognized some of the recovered belongings. However, authorities emphasized that a formal identification has not yet been made, pending forensic analysis.
Forensic Examination Underway
The Douglas County Coroner’s Office in Omaha is leading the scientific investigation, which includes dental record comparisons, DNA testing, and other forensic analyses to confirm whether the remains belong to Englebert.
“We cannot positively identify the deceased until we receive confirmation through the forensic examination,” investigators stated in a joint update. The process could take several weeks as multiple agencies work together to verify the findings.
A Case That Has Haunted Wyoming and Nebraska for Years
Englebert, who was 25 years old at the time of his disappearance, was last seen in the Gering-Terrytown area after reportedly leaving his in-laws’ home following a disagreement. Despite extensive searches involving local police, the FBI, and volunteer teams, no trace of him was found — until now.
The discovery near the Scotts Bluff National Monument, a rugged area known for its deep ravines and uneven terrain, may finally shed light on what happened to Englebert.
Family Contacted After Discovery
Englebert’s family members confirmed they were contacted by investigators shortly after the remains were found. They expressed cautious hope but said they are awaiting official confirmation from forensic experts before making any conclusions.
The Gering Police Department, Scotts Bluff County Sheriff’s Office, and National Park Service are all assisting in the ongoing investigation, which remains active.
Ongoing Search for Answers
Local and federal authorities have vowed to continue pursuing every lead until the identity of the remains is verified and the circumstances of the death are fully understood.
Anyone with information related to Chance Englebert’s disappearance or the discovery at Scotts Bluff National Monument is encouraged to contact Gering Police or the Scotts Bluff County Sheriff’s Office.
As law enforcement awaits final forensic results, the community continues to follow this case closely — one that has spanned years, states, and countless volunteer search efforts. For continuing updates and local coverage on missing persons and regional investigations, follow NapervilleLocal.com for verified reports from across the Midwest.
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