In loving Memory of John Tillotson : Sanders County Sheriff’s Office Investigation Death in Cooper Gulch Area

In loving Memory of John Tillotson : Sanders County Sheriff’s Office Investigation Death in Cooper Gulch Area 

SANDERS COUNTY, Mont. — The quiet community of Sanders County is reeling after the tragic discovery of a man’s body in a remote, wooded area earlier this week. According to the Sanders County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to a call on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, at approximately 11:18 a.m., after a local hunter reported finding a deceased individual in the rugged Cooper Gulch area. The man was later identified as John Tillotson.

Authorities say the hunter came across the body while traversing a heavily forested section of Cooper Gulch, a remote and difficult-to-access location known for its steep terrain and dense vegetation. After confirming the discovery, the hunter immediately contacted law enforcement, prompting a coordinated response from deputies, detectives, and emergency personnel.

When first responders arrived at the scene, they secured the area and began an extensive on-site investigation. Due to the isolation of the location, recovery efforts were challenging and required the assistance of specialized search and rescue teams, including personnel trained in navigating backcountry environments. The body was transported from the scene later that afternoon and taken to the Montana State Crime Lab in Missoula for an autopsy to determine the cause and manner of death.

At this stage, the Sheriff’s Office has not released details regarding the circumstances surrounding Tillotson’s death, including how long he may have been in the area or whether foul play is suspected. Investigators have stated that the case remains active and that they are awaiting autopsy results before making any further determinations.

Sheriff’s officials have confirmed that Tillotson’s family has been notified. In a brief statement, Sheriff Tom Rummel expressed condolences to the family, saying, “Our thoughts and prayers are with the loved ones of Mr. Tillotson during this difficult time. We understand how painful and unsettling this situation is for everyone involved, and we are committed to finding answers.”

Residents of Sanders County have expressed shock and sorrow over the discovery, as news of Tillotson’s death spread throughout the close-knit community. Many described him as a quiet and hardworking man who enjoyed spending time outdoors. Friends and neighbors have begun leaving messages of remembrance on social media, sharing condolences and prayers for his family.

Investigators are urging anyone who may have seen or spoken to Tillotson in the days leading up to his death to contact the Sanders County Sheriff’s Office. Even small details, they said, could be crucial in piecing together the timeline of events that led to the tragedy.

As the community mourns, law enforcement continues its work to bring clarity and closure to Tillotson’s family. The Sheriff’s Office has pledged to provide updates as new information becomes available.

For now, Sanders County stands united in grief — and in hope that answers will soon come to light regarding the tragic death of John Tillotson in the quiet woods of Cooper Gulch.