Missing person Mitchell Dale Stehling NPS image

Name: Mitchell Dale Stehling

Missing from: Mesa Verde National Park

Date Missing: June 9, 2013

Description: Stehling was 51 years old at the time he went missing. White male, 6’0” tall, approximately 200 pounds, brown and gray hair, and brown eyes.

Case Info: Stehling was last seen on Sunday, June 9, 2013 while hiking in the park. He was on a road trip with his wife, father, and mother. After telling his family that he wanted to see the Spruce Tree House cliff dwelling, Stehling started hiking at approximately 4:30 pm. The trail to the dwelling is less than 1/4 mile long and connects with the Petroglyph Point Trail. Stehling did not return from his hike.

See also: apps.colorado.gov/apps/coldcase/casedetail.html?id=316008



An anonymous tip submitted to us led to the discovery of human remains in a remote area of the park. US Park Rangers, an ISB Special Agent, and personnel from the Montezuma County Coroner's Office located and recovered the remains on September 17, 2020. The remains were found approximately 4.2 miles from the point where Stehling was last seen in June 2013. Though positive identification is pending DNA analysis, personal items located with the remains are consistent with identification, and the presumptive identity of the remains is that of Mitchell Dale Stehling. Park officials say there is no indication of foul play. Our thoughts are with the family, and we thank the person who submitted the tip to us. Park officials appreciate their personnel, community search and rescue, law enforcement groups, and the public for their support over that past 7 years in this ongoing investigation.



