LAKE STATION, Indiana — A heartbreaking discovery has brought devastating news to a Northwest Indiana family after the body of 18-year-old Rodrigo “Rico” Montes was found Thursday morning in Deep River. The discovery comes just days after he was reported missing following a crash, leaving his loved ones in deep grief.

Officials said Montes’ body was located about 50 feet from where a submerged truck had been found earlier in the week near 27th Avenue and Wyoming. The truck was discovered early Monday morning, sparking an urgent search for the missing teen. After days of uncertainty and hope, the search ended in tragedy.

Authorities have confirmed that a suspect is now in custody in connection with the case. However, investigators have not yet released details about the arrest or the exact circumstances surrounding Montes’ death. The case remains under active investigation as officials work to understand what happened.

Family members said Rico had been attending a cookout Sunday evening and was expected home by 11 p.m. When he did not return, concern quickly turned into panic. His family began calling police shortly after midnight and contacted nearby hospitals, hoping to find him safe. Their search continued as new details about the crash began to emerge.

In a troubling development, the driver of the truck—believed to be around Montes’ age—later showed up at the family’s home early Monday morning with their parents. According to the family, the driver said they did not know where Rico was after the crash. The individual was later taken for a mental evaluation, adding more questions to an already painful situation.

Rico, a senior at River Forest High School, is remembered as a kind and determined young man with big dreams for the future. He was a dedicated wrestler and someone who cared deeply about others. As the community mourns, friends and family are holding on to memories of his kindness, while investigators continue working to bring answers and justice in this tragic case.