Questions Linger As Manhattan Man's Death Investigated

COAL CITY, IL — Questions remain following the ruling of a Manhattan man's death as a drowning Monday, with community members and friends wondering how the 47-year-old's body ended up in a lake in Grundy County.

Anthony Fehrenbacher, 47, was last seen by family on May 26, then reported missing June 1. He was believed to be on foot May 26; his cars were found at his Manhattan home, where police found no sign of forced entry. Family turned to police for help, with Fehrenbacher's sister also organizing a search party to comb nearby trails.

A week after her efforts, his body was discovered floating in a lake inside CECO Recreation Club, 1210 N. Dresden Rd. on Saturday, June 10.

Grundy County Coroner John Callahan ruled drowning as the cause of death, but has not yet issued a manner of death. Grundy County Sheriff Ken Briley said the death is being investigated as a homicide until foul play can be ruled out, which he described as protocol.

Friends of Fehrenbacher are left wondering how he got to the club, when his vehicles were at his home — which is more than 30 minutes away by car— and how long his body had been there before it was discovered. CECO is a gated club, and he would need access to get inside.

Many wonder on social media: how did he get there? How did no one see him?

The coroner's office and sheriff's office will continue to work in weeks to come to determine how Fehrenbacher arrived at the location, in addition to analyzing toxicology results, and other factors. An investigation to determine the manner of death and circumstances surrounding it is expected to take 4-5 weeks, Callahan said. Police shortly after discovering the body said it was an isolated incident and did not believe there to be any threat to the public.

An obituary described Fehrenbacher as a loving father of three who enjoyed "motocross racing, antique tractors, and spending time with his children. Visitation will take place on Wednesday, June 14, from 4 to 7 p.m., at Forsythe Gould Funeral Home, 507 S. State St., in Manhattan. A funeral service will immediately follow at 7 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations made to Fehrenbacher's children for future expenses are encouraged.