Missing Father-in-Law of Olympian Dominique Dawes Found Dead in Virginia Search

Leonard Thompson, the father-in-law of Olympic gold medalist Dominique Dawes, has been found dead in Virginia. The Herndon Police Department confirmed the tragic discovery. It followed a multi-day search after he was reported missing earlier this week.

The search concluded near Troutville, Virginia. Authorities have not released details about the cause of death. The family has requested privacy during this difficult time.

Search Efforts and Family’s Public Appeal

According to the Herndon Police Department, search and rescue workers located Thompson’s body. He had been missing since Monday. Virginia State Police assisted in the operation.

Dominique Dawes had made urgent public appeals for help. She shared that Thompson was last seen in Winchester, Virginia. His car was later found with a flat tire in Roanoke.

Dawes believed he may have been disoriented from a health episode. She asked the public and truckers along Interstate 81 to be vigilant. Her social media pleas gained national attention before the sad outcome.

A Community and Family in Mourning

The news has deeply affected the gymnastics community and beyond. Dawes is a celebrated figure in American sports. Her family’s loss has drawn an outpouring of support.

In a statement, Dawes expressed gratitude for the prayers and support. She shared a final memory of seeing him at church. The family is now focused on mourning and remembrance.

This incident highlights the critical first hours in missing person cases. The swift response from multiple Virginia agencies was noted by police. Their efforts brought a resolution, however heartbreaking, to the family.

The death of Leonard Thompson concludes a widespread search that gripped many. The family of Olympian Dominique Dawes now turns to private grief after a public ordeal.

Info at your fingertips

Who was Leonard Thompson?

Leonard Thompson was the father-in-law of Olympic gymnast Dominique Dawes. He was a missing person whose search ended tragically in Virginia. The family has shared limited personal details.

How did Dominique Dawes respond?

Dawes made repeated public appeals on social media to find him. She believed he was disoriented and needed help. After his death, she thanked the public for their support and prayers.

What did the police report say?

Herndon Police Department announced the discovery in a Facebook post. They thanked Virginia State Police and emergency management for their assistance. The department offered condolences to the Thompson family.

Where was Leonard Thompson found?

He was found in Troutville, Virginia. This was after his car was discovered abandoned in Roanoke. The locations are along the Interstate 81 corridor.

What is Dominique Dawes known for?

Dominique Dawes is a former U.S. Olympic gymnast. She was part of the “Magnificent Seven” gold medal team in 1996. She was the first African-American woman to win an individual Olympic medal in gymnastics.