Four Years After Disappearance, Investigators Renew Search for Missing Wisconsin Woman Melissa Trumpy
CARROLL COUNTY, ILLINOIS — Four years after the mysterious disappearance of Melissa Trumpy, law enforcement agencies across multiple states say the search remains active as investigators continue to pursue new leads and conduct ground and water operations in northern Illinois.
Trumpy, who lived in Monticello, Wisconsin, was last seen on the night of October 26, 2021, and is believed to have been in Shannon, Illinois, at the time. Her vehicle was later found abandoned along Bolton Road in Stephenson County, but she has not been seen or heard from since.
Investigation Still Active After Four Years
The case began on October 27, 2021, when Trumpy’s boyfriend, Derek Hammer, was taken into custody by the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office on outstanding warrants from Green County, Wisconsin. Authorities confirmed Hammer has not been charged in connection with Trumpy’s disappearance.
Despite the years that have passed, the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office says the case has never gone cold, and investigators are continuing to analyze new information and execute search warrants.
“We remain deeply sympathetic to Melissa’s family and friends, who have endured four long years without answers,” the sheriff’s office said in a public statement.
Multiple Agencies Join Renewed Search Efforts
The investigation is being led by the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office with assistance from a wide coalition of state and federal agencies, including the Illinois State Police, FBI, Illinois Attorney General’s Office, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and Wisconsin Division of Criminal Investigation.
Recent efforts have included new search operations conducted this week, focusing on both ground and water areas in northern Illinois. Officials say these renewed efforts reflect the continuing flow of tips and evolving leads in the four-year-old case.
Authorities Ask Public for Tips
Investigators are once again calling on the public to come forward with any information related to Trumpy’s disappearance or suspicious activity in Carroll County the night she vanished.
Tips can be reported by calling Carroll County Crime Stoppers at 815-244-7867, emailing TrumpyTips@ilag.gov, or contacting the Illinois Attorney General’s Office at 866-498-4122.
Anonymous tips may qualify for cash rewards if they lead to an arrest or major breakthrough in the case.
As the search for Melissa Trumpy enters its fifth year, family members and investigators remain hopeful that renewed attention and cooperation will finally bring answers. For continuing coverage of missing persons and public safety updates across the Midwest, visit ChicagoMusicGuide.com.