Search Ends Sadly for Missing Twin Cities Man

Human remains believed to be that of a missing Twin Cities man were located Tuesday afternoon August 4th, 2026 in a heavily wooded area of Douglas County Forest land in the Town of Summit.

Edward Hanton, 89, Mendota Heights, went missing from his residence during the afternoon hours of July 22, 2026.  An electronic ping placed him on HWY 48 near Hinckley around 5pm and video evidence showed his vehicle in the Danbury/Webster area around 6pm.  Family believed he may have been heading to Superior or a family cabin near Amnicon Lake.

His vehicle was located on July 27 on a trail west of Bear Lake and East of Carlson Rd between Pioneer Trail and Tower Fire Lane.  An extensive ground search by several agencies over the next several days led to the eventual discovery.  Personal items with the body indicate it is that of Mr. Hanton.  A forensic examination and positive ID will be conducted.

Assisting the Douglas County Sheriff's Office in this search were the St. Louis County, MN Rescue Squad and K9 Teams, the Sawyer County, WI K9 team, and numerous volunteers from the Towns of Summit, Superior, Oakland, and Parkland fire departments. The Douglas County Sheriff and Medical Examiner's Office continue the investigation.