Body of a man found in Big Blue River

Sunday, March 22, 2026 at 6:56 PM

By Staff report

The Shelbyville Police Department and the Shelby County Sheriff’s Department responded to the to the Big Blue River in the area of West Washington Avenue after receiving a report of a person in the water.

The individual was described as appearing deceased and located on a log in the river.

Officers arrived on scene and located the body. At this time, investigators have confirmed the deceased is a male. Due to the condition of the body and exposure to the elements, a positive identification has not yet been made.

Investigators are currently working in coordination with the Shelby County Coroner’s Office to have an autopsy performed and hopefully determine the identity of the deceased, as well as a possible cause of death.

The Shelbyville Police Department is aware of speculation circulating on social media regarding the identity of the individual. The department asks the public to refrain from speculation and allow investigators the time necessary to conduct a thorough and accurate investigation.

There's no official information if the body could be that of Lyle Stanton, 61, who has been the focus of a search since he was last seen on March 3.

Additional information will be released as it becomes available.