The discovery of a partially submerged body near downtown Columbus is raising questions about a recent high profile missing person’s case.
Columbus Police Sergeant David Sicilian said the body is of a male in his 20s. It's unclear how the person died and an autopsy is being performed on Wednesday.
The body was found around 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday near the Whittier Peninsula in the Scioto Audubon Metro Park. It was found after a special victims bureau requested a routine search of local bodies of water.
Sgt. Sicilian says the death appears to be suspicious.
Less than three miles away in the Short North, where 26-year-old Joey LaBute was last seen about 3 1/2 weeks ago at Union Café, it’s no longer just fear that’s spreading.
“It kind of makes you feel not safe like being downtown alone,” James Hill said.
So too is the news of the body that was found.
“I hope it’s not him, but if it is, its good to see the family get some closure I suppose,” David Wezey said.
Columbus police wouldn’t confirm if LaBute's body was found by dive teams. Until then, those following Joey LaBute’s story hope it doesn’t end here.
“I hope very much it’s not him but whoever it is my thoughts and wishes go out to their family,” Lara Falberg said.
10TV reached out to Joey LaBute’s family but they declined comment.
