A family vacation at a Bavarian-themed resort in Michigan took a tragic turn when a Navy veteran vanished without explanation.

According to Fox News, Robert Loren Bacon, 52, was discovered dead in the Cass River near Heritage Park in Frankenmuth, Michigan, after going missing during a family gathering at the Bavarian Inn Lodge on December 27.

The father of two was last seen around 7:20 p.m. when he told family members he was heading to his car to retrieve something and would return to join them at the pool area. His disappearance sparked immediate concern when he failed to return and calls to his cell phone went straight to voicemail.

Extensive Search Operation Leads To Discovery In Cass River

The Frankenmuth Police Department initiated a comprehensive search after Bacon's family officially reported him missing on December 30.

Multiple law enforcement agencies collaborated in the effort, employing search dogs and drones to locate the missing veteran.

After an exhaustive search spanning several days, dive teams from the Frankenmuth Police Department located and recovered Bacon's body from the Cass River on January 4. Preliminary findings indicate drowning as the cause of death, though authorities await final confirmation from the Saginaw County Medical Examiner's Office.

The investigation into the circumstances surrounding Bacon's death remains active, with authorities working to piece together the events that led to this tragic outcome.

Family Expresses Gratitude Amid Devastating Loss

The news of Bacon's death has deeply affected his family and the local community. His ex-wife, Melissa McLenna, took to social media to share updates throughout the search and express appreciation for the community's support.

McLenna shared her family's grief on Facebook, stating:

I have no words to describe how we feel we are so sad I just want to say thank you to everyone that helped look for Robert thank you to all that prayed for us and that are continuing to pray for us.

The incident has drawn attention to the popular tourist destination of Frankenmuth, a Bavarian-inspired town situated between Saginaw and Flint, known for its family-friendly attractions and cultural heritage.

Questions Remain As Investigation Continues

The disappearance and death of Robert Loren Bacon, a 52-year-old Navy veteran and father of two, has left the Frankenmuth community searching for answers.

What began as a family gathering at the Bavarian Inn Lodge on December 27 ended in tragedy when his body was discovered in the Cass River near Heritage Park on January 4.

While preliminary findings point to drowning, investigators continue their work to understand the full circumstances surrounding his death, as his family and community mourn their loss.