Body of Missing Teen Rodrigo ‘Rico’ Montes Found in Deep River; Suspect in Custody”
Rodrigo “Rico” Montes Death, Obituary: LAKE STATION, Ind. — A heartbreaking discovery has brought devastating news to a Northwest Indiana family, as the body of 18-year-old Rodrigo “Rico” Montes was found Thursday morning in Deep River, just days after he was reported missing following a crash.
According to officials, Montes’ body was located approximately 50 feet from where a submerged truck was discovered early Monday morning near 27th Avenue and Wyoming. The discovery comes after an intensive search effort and days of uncertainty for his loved ones.
Authorities have confirmed that a suspect is now in custody in connection with the case, though no additional details regarding the arrest have been released at this time. The investigation remains ongoing.
Family members say Montes had been attending a cookout Sunday evening and was expected to be home by 11 p.m. When he failed to return, concern quickly turned into panic. His brother, speaking to WGN News, said the family began contacting police shortly after midnight and started calling local hospitals in hopes of finding him.
Meanwhile, a truck driven by another individual around Montes’ age was discovered submerged in Deep River. In a troubling development, the driver later arrived at Montes’ family home around 4:45 a.m. Monday accompanied by their own parents. According to the Montes family, the driver stated he did not know where Rico was following the crash and was subsequently taken for a mental evaluation.
The loss of Rodrigo “Rico” Montes has deeply shaken the community. A senior at River Forest High School, Rico was known not only for his academic efforts but also for his dedication as a wrestler. Those closest to him describe a young man full of promise, kindness, and ambition.
“Rico had a lot of hope after high school,” his brother, Moises Montes, shared. “We talked about his future — whether he might go into construction management or the trades. He had plans.”
Friends and family remember him as someone who always looked out for others.
“If it was the other way around, I know he wouldn’t have left his friend,” Moises said. “He’s very nice, very caring, and he always looked out for others.”
As investigators continue to piece together what happened in the moments leading up to the crash, the Montes family is left grieving a profound and unimaginable loss. The community has begun to rally around them, offering support and remembering Rico for the bright, compassionate young man he was.
