Missing Utah man found in reservoir after 20-year mystery

A decades-long missing persons case was closed Tuesday when police confirmed DNA evidence that proved a car submerged in Starvation Reservoir contained the body of Steven Anderson. Photo: United Search Corps

DUCHESNE – The Salt Lake County Sheriff’s Office announced Tuesday that 47-year-old Steven Willard Anderson was found inside a submerged vehicle in Starvation Reservoir on Sept. 30, 2024. Anderson had been missing since 2004 and his case has remained an open and ongoing investigation for several years, a sheriff’s office press release said.

Authorities have ruled out foul play in his death.

The car was discovered 50 feet deep in the reservoir in September after a nonprofit dedicated to locating missing persons, United Search Corps, helped put together pieces of the mystery about what had happened to Anderson.

Fox 13, published this story in September, before the DNA evidence confirmed it was Anderson’s body that had been found.