Skeletal Remains Identified as Missing Plainfield Township Man
PLAINFIELD TOWNSHIP, Mich: On 2/24/2026, the Michigan State Police were dispatched to the area of US-131 and West River Drive after skeletal remains were discovered in a wooded brush area by an individual walking in the woods. The remains were significantly decomposed, and the individual was wearing hunting camouflage clothing.
The Kent County Sheriff’s Office Investigative Division assisted MSP with the investigation. Evidence collected at the scene, along with medical record comparison, confirmed the remains as belonging to Scott Weldon, 61, of Plainfield Township.
Mr. Weldon was reported missing in 2023. During that investigation, detectives learned he had mailed a letter to family members indicating he was suicidal and that he intended not to be found. Investigators conducted phone record review that showed movement north of Sand Lake, Michigan, in the days before his disappearance before phone activity stopped. Detectives searched multiple areas in Kent County and other northern counties, conducted neighborhood canvasses, and interviewed individuals connected to the case. Investigators also repeatedly searched the immediate and surrounding areas of Mr. Weldon’s residence in Plainfield Township during the initial investigation and in subsequent follow-up efforts.
Over the past three years, detectives have periodically reviewed the case, re-examined digital evidence, verified tips, and followed up on any information that surfaced. While no new actionable leads were developed, the case remained open and active.
Based on the information available at the time, investigative efforts were focused in the areas indicated through digital data and leads. The location where Mr. Weldon was ultimately found was in dense, wooded brush and not readily visible from roadways or commonly traveled areas. The terrain and heavy vegetation in the area significantly limited visibility and contributed to the difficulty in locating him sooner.
The Kent County Medical Examiner has ruled the manner of death as suicide. We are grateful this identification brings long-awaited answers to Mr. Weldon’s family.
If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available by calling or texting 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
If you have information related to this case, please call the KCSO at 616-632-6125, or submit a tip online at Kentcountymi.gov/tips
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