WEST JORDAN, Utah -- Almost a week after a West Jordan Police Department officer was reported missing, police have confirmed that officer Jedediah "JR" Steadman has been located and is deceased.
According to a press release from the West Jordan Police Department, the man's truck was found at the base of a cliff in a remote area of Sevier County, west of Emery City, late Sunday morning.
"We found out today that we lost another brother, one of our officers," said Dan Roberts of the West Jordan Police Department.
The release states, "It appears that JR missed a turn and went off the road and over the cliff. Our investigation is continuing."
Roberts added: "It's a remote road from what I'm told, and its a sharp curve and it looks like his vehicle just traveled off, missed the curve."
Police confirmed that Steadman died at the scene. It was not clear what may have caused the truck to go over the cliff.
"We have no way of knowing what caused the accident," Roberts said. "It could be as simple as looking down to get a drink and missing the curve, it's too hard to tell."
The man had been reported missing earlier this week, reportedly after he had a verbal argument with his wife.
Roberts said Steadman was ultimately found in a place Steadman was familiar with.
"We are told that he does have family in the area, and the family has property that he has frequented," he said.
The press release thanked those who have helped search for the officer, from search and rescue teams to numerous volunteers.
The release also stated: "Our sincerest condolences go out to the Steadman family, who are asking for privacy as they mourn their loss. As a Department, we will warmly remember Officer Steadman for his many years of dedicated service to our community. Today we lost another one of our own."
Robets echoed the sentiments expressed in the press release.
"He was a good officer and he'll be missed," Roberts said. "We will always have warm memories of officer Steadman."
Steadman leaves behind a wife and four children--ages 7 to 18. Funeral arrangements have not yet been made.
