Missing Person Found Deceased After Fourteen Hour Search in Owen County, KY

Search begins after midnight and ends 4 in the afternoon

 On Sunday, November 3rd, 2019 at approximately 12:21 a.m. KSP Post 5 Campbellsburg dispatch received a 911 call reporting a missing person from Owen County, Kentucky.  It was reported that 51 year old Leon Townsend went missing from his residence located on New Columbus Road in Owen County, KY.  It was further reported that Mr. Townsend had diminished mental capabilities, placing him at a greater risk of possible injury.  Due to these circumstances Mr. Townsend was immediately entered missing into NCIC and multiple agencies joined the Kentucky State Police in an expansive search for him near his residence and last known location.

Sadly, after a nearly fourteen hour search, Mr. Townsend was located deceased in a creek near his residence.  The Owen County Coroner pronounced Mr. Townsend deceased at the scene at 4:14 p.m.  Mr. Townsend’s next of kin were notified and an autopsy and toxicology have been scheduled for Monday, November 4^th.  No foul play is suspected at this time and Mr. Townsend’s death is believed to be an unfortunate tragedy. 

“This is never the outcome we hope to have and we are truly sad for Mr. Townsend’s family and friends.  We at KSP Post 5 Campbellsburg are grateful for the astounding number of agencies that joined us in our search efforts to find Mr. Townsend, with the list simply being too long to name.  It’s truly unfortunate to have the outcome we did, but it is comforting to know that every effort was made to find Mr. Townsend safe and well.  In situations like these time is truly critical, which is why I am so proud of the efforts made by all the agencies involved.” –Trooper Steven Dykes

The Kentucky State Police was assisted on scene by search and rescue teams from Owen County, Grant County as well as several other surrounding counties.  In addition, they were assisted by the Owen County Coroner’s Office, Owen County EMS and the Kentucky National Guard.  The Kentucky State Police would like to thank everyone involved in the search for their quick and selfless actions.