Authorities Identify Body Found Near Belfield as Missing Washington Man Paul Joseph Lalonde

Belfield, ND (trfnews.i234.me)—Authorities have positively identified the remains found near Belfield in October 2024 as those of Paul Joseph Lalonde, 33, of Ferndale, Washington.

Discovery of the Body

  • The Stark County Sheriff’s Office reported that Lalonde’s remains were found on October 25, 2024, along the south side of Interstate 94, about two miles west of Belfield.
  • A firearm was recovered at the scene, and authorities found no evidence of foul play.

Medical Examiner’s Findings

  • The North Dakota Medical Examiner’s Office ruled the cause of death as a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
  • Lalonde had been reported missing in July 2024.
  • Investigators believe he left his vehicle at the On the Run truck stop in Belfield on July 7, then walked west along Interstate 94 before reaching the location where his remains were found.

Investigation Closed

The investigation was conducted in collaboration with:

  • Stark County Sheriff’s Office
  • North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation
  • North Dakota Highway Patrol

Authorities have officially closed the case, ruling no foul play was involved.

Further updates will be provided as more details emerge.

I’m Chris Harper, reporting for trfnews.i234.me

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