Larimer County Concludes Four-Day Landfill Search for Missing Loveland Man

A four-day search of the Larimer County landfill has concluded without locating 57-year-old Carl Smith, a Loveland man last seen entering a dumpster on Jan. 17.

Security video showed Smith enter the dumpster but not exit. After a garbage truck emptied it and deposited the load at the county landfill, investigators focused their search on that specific section.

The search involved LCSO investigators and forensics staff, Larimer County Search & Rescue, the Coroner's Office, landfill staff, and the Emergency Services Phantom Canyon crew. Crews used hand tools, heavy equipment, cadaver dogs, and drones to comb roughly 10,000 cubic yards of solid waste.

Investigators have not yet determined why Smith entered the dumpster. Foul play is not suspected, and there is no risk to public safety.

"While many questions remain unanswered, our team went to considerable efforts in hopes of locating Mr. Smith," said Larimer County Sheriff John Feyen.

"We couldn't have gone to such lengths without the hard manual labor of our crew and help of our partners at Larimer County Solid Waste and LCSAR. All human life holds value, and these folks demonstrated that through their unwavering dedication to this tough operation."

Anyone with information may contact LCSO Investigator Brent Manley at 970-498-5336. Smith remains listed as a missing person.