Tragic End to Grandson’s Spring Break with Grandfather

A cherished spring break trip turned into a heart-wrenching tragedy for a Chicago family, leaving them in grief after a three-month search for their missing son.

On June 30, 2025, the body of 20-year-old Matteo Rossi was found near Newport Beach in Wisconsin, ending a grueling search that began when he went missing on April 3. Lake Delton Police responded to a call at 2:13 p.m. after a body was spotted in the water, wearing clothes matching Matteo’s last known outfit. Authorities later confirmed his identity.

Matteo, a second-year student at Wright College, was spending spring break with his grandfather, Antonio Rossi, on the Wisconsin River near the Kilbourn Dam. Their boat, carrying Matteo, Antonio, and another man, Carlo Vitti, capsized in turbulent waters. Carlo reached shore, but Antonio’s body was recovered the next day. Matteo remained missing, leaving his family in limbo.

Matteo’s mother, Elena Rossi-Myers, clung to hope. “He always put family first,” she told local news. “Life feels empty without him.” His father, Daniel Myers, added, “Waiting like this is torture.” Matteo’s girlfriend, Mia Carver, shared her pain: “I just want him back—I can’t bear knowing he’s out there.”

The search faced challenges from fast-moving currents and hazardous river conditions, as noted by the Wisconsin Dells Police. Despite relentless efforts by volunteers and agencies, weeks passed without answers. Elena pleaded, “The river took my son—please give him back, just once more.”

Matteo was known for his warm smile and kindness, touching everyone he met, according to his obituary from Cumberland Chapels. Antonio, 75, an experienced boater, had planned the trip to bond with his grandson. “He didn’t realize the water was so high,” Elena said.

After Antonio’s body was found on April 5, authorities urged boaters to wear life jackets and monitor conditions, warning of deceptive spring weather. The discovery of Matteo’s body brought closure but deepened the family’s sorrow. A GoFundMe campaign, launched by a family friend, continues to support funeral costs, reflecting the emotional and financial toll.

The Wisconsin Dells Police expressed condolences and gratitude to search teams. The tragedy underscores the river’s dangers, leaving a family to mourn a young man full of promise and a grandfather who cherished him.