Search Suspended for Missing Northern Michigan University Student Trenton Massey

The search for Trenton Massey, a 21-year-old Northern Michigan University student, has been suspended after extensive efforts by authorities. Massey went missing after leaving a bar early Sunday morning, with surveillance footage showing him walking towards the ice on Lake Superior. His family is devastated and continues to seek answers, while a GoFundMe campaign has raised significant funds to support search efforts. A candlelight vigil is planned to honor him, reflecting the community's deep concern and support during this difficult time.

By Narendra Chaudhary Feb 28, 2026, 02:13 IST

Search Efforts Conclude for Trenton Massey

Authorities in Marquette have halted the search for Trenton Massey, a 21-year-old student at Northern Michigan University, following extensive efforts over several days across land, ice, and water. Massey was reported missing early Sunday morning after leaving a downtown bar. His phone was later discovered, prompting his family to notify the police by early afternoon. Surveillance footage captured Massey walking near the lake shortly before 3 AM on Sunday, where he was seen heading towards the ice near the north Founder’s Landing Pier. The camera subsequently lost track of him. Search and Rescue teams later utilized sonar technology to confirm that he had entered the waters of Lake Superior on February 23. Investigators suspect that he may have walked towards the lake in a disoriented state and fell through the ice, with the frigid water likely inducing hypothermia within minutes. After four days of searching, the police chief stated that all possible areas had been thoroughly examined.

Insights from Law Enforcement

What Did Police Say?

Law enforcement tracked Massey’s movements using various video recordings. One camera captured him walking along a multi-use path near UP Health System-Marquette at 2:50 AM, while another showed him heading towards the Founder’s Landing Boardwalk. At 3:25 AM, he walked onto the ice and disappeared from sight. Search teams conducted operations by land, air, and water, employing scuba divers, sonar, drones, K9 units, remote vehicles, a hovercraft, an airboat, and a helicopter, as reported by a media outlet. The search area extended from Founder’s Landing to Mattson Lower Harbor Park and surrounding neighborhoods. Officials indicated that they would resume the search if new information emerges and urged volunteers to refrain from entering private properties and to avoid the unstable ice.

Family's Heartfelt Response

What Trenton Massey's Family Said

Massey’s mother, Sarah Brock, shared the last photo and text she received from her son, which was a selfie taken at a bar earlier that evening. She expressed her gratitude for that final message while also conveying the fear and anguish she feels, along with the numerous unanswered questions. Brock mentioned that the family has created a timeline to understand why Massey deviated from his usual route home, repeatedly asking, “Why Trenton?” A friend initiated a GoFundMe campaign to assist the family with search-related expenses, which has raised over $53,000. The organizer noted that the recent days have been filled with fear and helplessness for Massey’s loved ones. A candlelight vigil is scheduled for Thursday evening at Nick Annese Field in Corunna, Michigan. Brock described her son as selfless, lovable, and kind-hearted. Northern Michigan University President Chris Olsen expressed the school’s heartbreak over the situation, highlighting the community's response that reflects how much Massey meant to many. Massey’s family remains determined to continue their search, with Brock stating, “We will find you, Trenton.”