Grand Forks (trfnews.i234.me) — Grand Forks police have released the identity.
They said a man was found dead in the Greenway area.
Police identified the man as 34-year-old Brandon Ruth of Grand Forks.
Where and when he was found
Police said a passerby called at about 2:07 p.m. on Wednesday, January 14, 2026.
The caller reported an unresponsive man south of the railroad bridge.
The location was in the Greenway area of Grand Forks.
Officers arrived and found Ruth face down in the snow.
Ruth was pronounced dead at the scene.
Police said no life-saving steps were taken.
Cause of death still unknown
Police said early findings did not show obvious trauma.
They said the scene did not show a clear cause of death.
Cold temperatures also limited what could be done outside.
Police said a complete body exam was not done at the scene.
A medical exam is pending.
That exam will help confirm the cause and manner of death.
In North Dakota, county cases may involve the State Forensic Examiner.
Police say there is no known threat
Investigators said there is no known threat to the public.
The case remains open while the medical exam is completed.
Police said they will share updates when they can.
How to send tips
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Grand Forks Police Department.
Call 701-787-8000 to reach investigators.
You can also submit tips online.
Police accept tips through their official Facebook page.
Police also accept tips through the Tip411 mobile app.
On the city tip page, police note you can text GFPD and a tip to 847411.
Cold weather note
Police said the cold affected the outdoor exam in this case.
The CDC warns that hypothermia can happen in extreme cold.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.