Details emerge after body of missing 18-year-old found in NW Indiana river after truck crash

More details are coming to light after the body of a missing 18-year-old high school senior from northwest Indiana was found in the Little Calumet River Thursday, with one person in custody and charges pending.

According to authorities in Lake Station, Indiana, the body of Rodrigo Montes, 18, was discovered by about 11:20 a.m. Thursday by dive teams with the Indiana Department of Natural Resources after a “lengthy an extensive operation.”

According to police, a suspect was in custody.

“Due to the nature of this case and those involved, no further information regarding the suspect will be released,” police said.

The discovery comes days after Montes, a wrestler and senior at River Forest High School in Hobart, Indiana, was reported missing over the weekend. Family members said Montes was last seen Sunday night leaving a gathering. He was believed to have been getting a ride home from a friend, but never made it.

The search for Montes began shortly afterwards, with officials finding the truck he was riding in upside down in the river, near 29th and Wyoming Streets. Photos and video from the scene showed a mangled black truck being loaded onto a tow, with its front side completely destroyed.

Family members say Montes was a passenger in the truck when it crashed. The driver walked away, going home after the crash, family said.

In a message posted to Facebook, River Forest High School said it was saddened by the news, with counselors expected to be on school grounds Monday when students return from spring break.

“During this difficult time, we also ask that you remind students to avoid spreading rumors or unverified information, particularly on social media,” the school’s message went on to say.

Authorities say they have found the body of an 18-year-old high school senior who was last seen over the weekend. Regina Waldroup has more.

Thursday afternoon, family and friends gathered at the site where Montes’ body was found, with many speaking to NBC Chicago through tears.

“I never had a little sibling, but he was the closest thing I had to that,” classmate and fellow wrestler Edwin said.

An autopsy by the Lake County Coroner was scheduled for Friday.