The search for missing 16-year-old Nicodemus Kyllingstad ended tragically this morning when the teen’s body was found in the desert near Arroyo Norte where he lived.
Maricopa County Sheriff’s Deputy Joaquin Enriquez said the investigation is ongoing but the boy apparently died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head.
Nic was reported missing Monday, Nov. 30, after he failed to show up for class at Boulder Creek High School. MCSO detectives launched an extensive land and air search. Those close to Nic created the Facebook page “Bring Nic Home” leading to an outpouring of support from area residents, including civilian search efforts.
The boy’s aunt, Michelle Mantle Gonzalez, told Anthem News on Tuesday that Nic was part of a stable, blended family, and believed Nic was alive and in hiding. After Nic was discovered, Gonzalez posted a message to the community on social media: “Anthem and the surrounding areas have some amazing folks living here. We can’t begin to thank you enough for all you have done and all the love.”
Students at Boulder Creek High learned of the loss of their classmate in school today, according to Deer Valley Unified School District spokesperson Monica Allread. A letter to parents stated crisis support counselors would be on campus to offer support to students in need.
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
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