United Airline executive found dead at Illinois nature preserve one year after disappearance

The body of a United Airline executive missing for more than year has been discovered at a forest preserve in a Chicago suburb, officials announced.

Jacob Cefolia was found dead Friday hanging by a belt from an uprooted tree in the Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve in Illinois, CBS Chicago reported. DuPage County Forest Preserve Chief David Pederson confirmed his identity on Sunday, citing dental records.

No foul play is expected at this time.

Cefolia’s wallet, driver’s license and a backpack with his personal belongings were found at the scene. His clothing also matched descriptions released when the 50-year-old executive vanished last year. He was last seen alive on Aug. 6, 2020 and reported missing two days later.

His vehicle was found parked outside the nature preserve, but his body was never found. The airline executive was ultimately found by contractors in an area south of a youth group campground.

Authorities said the area where Cefolia’s remains were discovered had been scoured several times amid a multi-agency search of the 2,500-acre forest — but thick tree canopies, dense vegetation and thick briar inhibited their search efforts.

“We were sad to hear the news about our former colleague Jake and our thoughts are with his family and friends during this difficult time,” United Airlines said in a statement to the news station.

“And we remain grateful for the support and prayers that so many of our employees — including Jake’s co-workers — have shared with one another and on his behalf over the past year.”