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.<\/p>\n
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\u2019s last known outfit. Authorities later confirmed his identity.<\/p>\n
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\u2019s body was recovered the next day. Matteo remained missing, leaving his family in limbo.<\/p>\n
Matteo\u2019s mother, Elena Rossi-Myers, clung to hope. \u201cHe always put family first,\u201d she told local news. \u201cLife feels empty without him.\u201d His father, Daniel Myers, added, \u201cWaiting like this is torture.\u201d Matteo\u2019s girlfriend, Mia Carver, shared her pain: \u201cI just want him back\u2014I can\u2019t bear knowing he\u2019s out there.\u201d<\/p>\n
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, \u201cThe river took my son\u2014please give him back, just once more.\u201d<\/p>\n
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. \u201cHe didn\u2019t realize the water was so high,\u201d Elena said.<\/p>\n
After Antonio\u2019s 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\u2019s body brought closure but deepened the family\u2019s sorrow. A GoFundMe campaign, launched by a family friend, continues to support funeral costs, reflecting the emotional and financial toll.<\/p>\n
The Wisconsin Dells Police expressed condolences and gratitude to search teams. The tragedy underscores the river\u2019s dangers, leaving a family to mourn a young man full of promise and a grandfather who cherished him.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"