Body Found in Woods Bordering Ohio and Michigan Identified as Erik Kimler

Erik Kimler, 39, was last seen in Toledo, Ohio, on January 10, 2019. (Courtesy of Toledo Police Department)

A body discovered in the woodlands bordering the states of Ohio and Michigan has been identified as a man who went missing in January.

The Lucas County Coroner’s Office examined the grim remains found at 1300 Brooke Park in Toledo, and authorities confirmed they belonged to Toledo Resident Erik Kimler, 39.

“The deceased male was identified as Erik Kimler, who was reported missing on January 11,” Toledo Police Department said in a Facebook post updated on April 29.

There was no evidence of trauma and some drug paraphernalia was collected near the body. A toxicology study is expected to take weeks.

“On April 27, a deceased male was found in a densely wooded area near the 1300 block of Brooke Park Drive. Toledo police detectives and investigators from the Lucas County Coroner’s Office responded,” police said.

Kimler was last seen on Jan. 10 in the area around Brooke Park Drive, Alexis Road, and Jackman Road. His girlfriend reported him missing after he left a nearby apartment about 9 p.m. local time without warning and without saying where he was going.

Detectives had reason to believe he was in danger, and described him as 5 foot 10 inches, 260 pounds with brown hair and blue eyes in their missing person’s report. He had gauges in his ears and rose tattoos on his left forearm, and was wearing a red coat, dark jeans, black t-shirt, and work boots at the time he went missing.

Friends and family of the victim have set up a Gofundme campaign to help cover expenses. The campaign said that the Erik Kimler Funeral Expenses Fund will cover the funeral cost and potentially a private investigator fee to bring those responsible to justice.

“Everything about Erik’s disappearance and death suggests foul play but we have very little information at this point. For now, everyone needs to grieve and heal in their own way and we all need any help anyone is willing to offer,” the family said on the page.

Many loved ones, who had hoped Kimler would be found alive, are mourning the tragic loss.

“Erik is loved by many and will be missed by many as well. I have no idea how much funerals or private investigators cost, so I set the goal at $5,000,” the page said. “This account is being set up for his sister; Raenn Hiner as she will be tending to this matter directly. Thank you so much for your help ... it is appreciated beyond words.”

A woman who identified herself as Kimler’s cousin was devastated to hear the sad news. Sympathizers extended their condolences.

“Shared again in Detroit, Mich. ... this is my cousin,” Julie Walker said in a Facebook comment dated January 27.

“Julie Walker I’m sorry hun,” Kelly Whitney said.

“I’m so sorry to hear about your cousin. Prayers for all,” Tonya Franklin said.

“Your family is in my prayers,” Stefanie Terry-Walker said.

Anyone with information on Kimler is invited to contact Toledo Police Department by phoning 419 255 1111.