The body of Dr. Cletus Iwuagwu, a respected Nigerian-born physician, has been discovered in a lake in Ohio, United States, authorities confirmed. Dr. Iwuagwu, 71, was reported missing on November 25, 2025, after he was last seen the previous evening. His disappearance had prompted a widespread search by law enforcement and concern from his colleagues.
The 71-year-old doctor’s remains were recovered from Orchard Lake, near the Stone Oak Country Club in Holland, Ohio, on Thursday, December 25, 2025. The Lucas County Coroner’s Office announced that the Springfield Fire Department was responsible for retrieving the body from the water. The discovery marks a tragic end to the search efforts that began over a month ago.
Dr. Iwuagwu was last seen by his family around 8 p.m. on November 24, 2025, at his office. Despite his daughter receiving location updates from his phone, authorities were unable to pinpoint his whereabouts. He was reportedly last seen wearing a white shirt and blue trousers, according to information provided by his family.
The cause and manner of Dr. Iwuagwu’s death are currently under thorough investigation by the coroner’s office. While preliminary assessments suggest no immediate suspicion of foul play, a comprehensive autopsy has been scheduled for Friday, December 26, 2025. The findings of this autopsy are expected to shed further light on the circumstances surrounding his passing.
Dr. Iwuagwu was a distinguished academic and clinician, holding a professorship in the Department of Medicine at the University of Toledo’s College of Medicine and Life Sciences. He also practiced as a geriatric medicine physician with UToledo Health, where he was highly regarded by his peers and patients. His colleagues at the University of Toledo Medical Center had expressed profound concern for his safety during his disappearance.
His professional community remembered Dr. Iwuagwu as a dedicated medical professional and educator. The University of Toledo Medical Center had previously described him as a highly respected figure, emphasizing their hope for his safe return during the active search. The ongoing investigation aims to provide closure to his family and the wider medical community.
