HARRIS, Chisago County, MN – (trfnews.i234.me) – A two-day search for a missing Minnesota deer hunter ended in tragedy Saturday, November 14, 2026.
Search teams located a deceased man believed to be Harlan Altepeter, 56, of North Branch, inside the Wild Rose Wildlife Management Area near Harris.
The discovery came at approximately 4:30 p.m., according to the Chisago County Sheriff’s Office.
Concerned Citizen Reports Abandoned Vehicle
The investigation began Friday, November 13, when a concerned citizen contacted authorities about a parked vehicle.
The vehicle had reportedly been sitting near the Wild Rose Wildlife Management Area for several days.
Deputies investigated and determined the vehicle was likely connected to an overdue deer hunter.
Authorities identified the missing hunter as Harlan Altepeter, a 56-year-old North Branch resident who had not returned from hunting.
Extensive Search Uses Drones and Aircraft
Search crews launched an operation involving ground personnel, aerial assistance, and specialized equipment.
A drone equipped with thermal imaging searched the area. The Minnesota State Patrol Aviation Unit also assisted.
Despite those efforts, search teams initially found no one needing assistance.
Other hunters reported seeing nothing suspicious. Investigators continued working into Friday night to locate the missing man.
Search Teams Make Tragic Discovery Saturday
On Saturday, November 14, multiple agencies returned to the wildlife management area for another coordinated search.
At approximately 4:30 p.m., crews discovered a deceased adult male believed to be Altepeter.
The sheriff’s office reported no visible signs of trauma or suspicious activity at the scene.
The Midwest Medical Examiner’s Office responded to process the scene and assist with the death investigation.
Authorities have not released an official cause of death. The sheriff’s initial announcement described the identification as preliminary.
Multiple Agencies Assist in Search
The search involved the Chisago County Sheriff’s Office and several emergency response organizations.
Assisting agencies included the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Harris Fire Department, and Minnesota State Patrol.
Northstar Search and Rescue and CAM Search and Rescue–Minnesota Team also provided assistance.
Numerous members of the local hunting community supported the search efforts.
The coordinated operation brought together emergency responders, volunteers, and experienced search personnel.
Cause of Death Remains Undetermined
Investigators have not announced what caused the hunter’s death.
Officials reported no apparent evidence of suspicious activity surrounding the discovery.
The medical examiner’s findings may provide more information about the circumstances of the death.
TRF News previously reported on the search for Altepeter before the tragic discovery.
Related: 56-Year-Old North Branch Hunter Missing Near Harris.
Additional reporting: FOX 9 – Missing Deer Hunter Found Dead Near Harris.
I’m Adrian Cole reporting for TRF News.
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