Human remains were located by police in Platteville on Sept. 2, 2024. Authorities identified the body as 43-year-old Derek Eastlick. The cause of death is still currently unknown.

The body was found in the western part of Platteville in a wooded area by two individuals on a walk who reported it to authorities. While the precise location has not been released, authorities have stated that the remains were located west of Milwaukee Street.

Eastlick was last seen in Platteville on Aug. 16 during a traffic stop. Eastlick was not the driver but fled on foot from the stop. It was later released that he had an active warrant for his arrest. No further information was released about any sightings between the stop and when his body was found.

Initial autopsies on Eastlick’s remains were inconclusive about his cause of death. No signs of outward trauma or any other sign of death were determined, and police say it would nearly be “impossible” to determine due to the conditions of the remains. Further testing will be done in an attempt to discern the cause of death.

The Platteville Police Department has stated that they believe this to be an isolated incident, and there is no present threat to the community. The investigation is ongoing at this time, and anyone with information is requested to contact the Platteville Police Department at 608-348-2313.