(WWJ) The search for a young Downriver man who disappeared from the Michigan Renaissance Festival in Oakland County has come to a tragic end.
Family and friends are asking for privacy after the remains of 22-year-old Jacob Tyler Angeles were discovered late Thursday night in Northern Michigan.
It's still not clear how Angeles died.
According to the Oakland County Sheriff's Office, Crawford County Sheriff’s deputies were notified on Aug. 21 that a silver Jeep Commander that matched the description of Angeles' vehicle was seen in a remote area by a resident.
Angeles's body was then found by deputies at around 11:30 p.m. the same day in the woods in Crawford County, which is in the Grayling area.
It's still not clear how Angeles died, or how long his body was there before it was discovered.
Officials said "foul play is not suspected," although the case remains under investigation by the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office Special Investigations Unit.
An autopsy is planned to determine the cause and manner of death, the sheriff's office said.
Police said Angeles was last seen alive on Aug. 16 at the Michigan Renaissance Festival, which is held on a 312-acre site at 12600 Dixie Highway in Holly.
Investigators said Angeles attended the festival with his mother, but they took separate cars.
His family became concerned when Angeles didn't return home that night, and then failed to show up for work.
Oakland County deputies used drones, a helicopter and K9s to perform an extensive search of area near the Renaissance Festival grounds, but didn't find anything.
The OCSO said security cameras captured an image of Angeles’ Jeep leaving the festival grounds on Saturday, and the vehicle pinged on a Flock license plate reader heading north at the I-75/675 interchange in Saginaw later that day. The vehicle was not seen again until the resident spotted it in Crawford County.
It is not known how Angeles ended up in that area, so far from home.
As the investigation continues, a Gofundme has now been launched to support Angeles' family.
A friend who posted the fundraiser on Friday wrote:
"We are devastated to share that Jacob’s remains were found late last night. His family is in deep grief and still waiting on many unanswered questions."
"At this time, they are asking for privacy as they begin to process this unimaginable loss. They are not in a position to respond to messages or inquiries, and we kindly ask that you refrain from reaching out directly. Your understanding means more than words can express.
"We are setting up this GoFundMe on behalf of Jacob’s family to help cover the cost of funeral services and any additional expenses they may face in the days ahead.
"The love, support, and prayers from the community have been a source of strength — thank you for standing with them during this incredibly difficult time. If you're able, please consider donating or sharing this page. Every contribution, no matter the size, is deeply appreciated."
Those who wish to help can donate at this link.
Anyone with information about this case should call the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office at 248-858-4950.