OSHKOSH – Oshkosh Police Department is continuing its investigation into the death of Frederick Ellis, 59.
The department said in a news release March 5 that an autopsy was performed Thursday, March 5, by the Fond du Lac County Medical Examiner’s Office. While final autopsy and toxicology reports are still pending, preliminary findings showed no injuries, police said.
Ellis’ body was found in a drainage area neighboring Perkins restaurant at West Ninth Avenue in Oshkosh, south of the on-ramp to Interstate 41, at around 7:43 a.m. March 3.
Ellis had been reported missing Jan. 10 after family members told officers they hadn’t heard from him since last October.
Timeline of the disappearance of Frederick Ellis
Police confirmed the last known contact with Ellis occurred on Oct. 25, 2025.
Authorities initially reported he was homeless, but later clarified he lived with family in the city of Oshkosh and was known to leave home for short periods before returning.
Search efforts and reported sightings
Since his disappearance, officers and detectives conducted ground searches at multiple locations and used a department drone to aid the effort.
Police also investigated several citizen reports of possible sightings around the city, though none was confirmed, police said March 5.
Public asked to help
Anyone who had contact with Ellis after Oct. 25, 2025, and has not yet spoken with police is urged to contact Detective Mentink at 920-236-5267.
Police said additional updates will be released as new information becomes available.
Contact Brandon Reid at breid@usatodayco.com.
This article originally appeared on Oshkosh Northwestern: Oshkosh police seek public help in Frederick Ellis case
Reporting by Brandon Reid, Oshkosh Northwestern / Oshkosh Northwestern
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