Norwegian police confirmed Tuesday that missing person Stian Hole has been found dead in Molvika on Hamarøy. The discovery brings closure to a lengthy investigation that began when the 41-year-old disappeared in June 2023.
Police located clothing in the area on October 16, leading to the recovery of Hole's body. The site lies approximately 15 kilometers from the Joker store at Storjord where he was last seen on security footage.
"The family is relieved that he has been found," said Hole's brother Morten in a statement. "That is the most important thing for us. Now the police can determine the cause of death."
Forensic examinations conducted at Oslo University Hospital on October 23 confirmed the identity through dental records. Police continue to investigate the cause of death while awaiting full autopsy results.
Three individuals remain suspects in the case, all previously charged with murder or complicity in murder. One suspect died in a Bodø apartment in September, while the other two maintain their innocence through legal representatives.
"My client is relieved that Stian has finally been found," said defense lawyer Sol Elden. "This gives hope that those close to him can finally get answers about what happened."
Police have established a four-kilometer drone exclusion zone around Molvika until Friday at 4 PM as criminal technicians continue examining the scene. Authorities request the public avoid the area stretching from Tysnes in the north to Tiltvika in the south.
The investigation revealed Hole had been fishing, one of his favorite hobbies, before his disappearance. Wet clothing matching what he wore in surveillance footage was found near cabins on Hamarøy, along with fishing equipment that had been stolen during a break-in.
This case highlights the challenges of missing persons investigations in Norway's remote northern regions, where vast wilderness areas can complicate search efforts over extended periods.