SANDERS COUNTY, Mont. — November 4, 2025 — Authorities in Sanders County have launched an investigation following the discovery of a man’s body in a remote section of the Cooper Gulch area on Tuesday morning. According to the Sanders County Sheriff’s Office, deputies received a call at approximately 11:18 a.m. from a local hunter who reported finding a deceased man later identified as John Tillotson.
Sheriff’s deputies and emergency personnel responded swiftly to the rugged, heavily wooded area, which lies several miles off the main road and is known for its steep terrain and limited accessibility. Upon arrival, first responders confirmed the presence of a deceased male. The area was secured as investigators began processing the scene for evidence.
Officials have not released Tillotson’s age or hometown pending notification of family members, but sources close to the investigation described him as a long-time Sanders County resident who was familiar with the region.
In a statement released Tuesday afternoon, Sheriff Tom Rummel said, “Our office is working closely with the Montana Department of Justice and the State Medical Examiner’s Office to determine the cause and manner of death. At this time, we are treating the case as a death investigation until further information becomes available.”
The Sheriff’s Office noted that the Cooper Gulch area is isolated, with limited cell service and few visitors during this time of year, making the discovery both unusual and concerning. Investigators remained on-site for several hours collecting evidence and documenting the scene before transporting Tillotson’s body to the state crime lab in Missoula for an autopsy.
Authorities have not yet indicated whether foul play is suspected but said that “no immediate threat to public safety” has been identified. Still, residents in nearby communities such as Trout Creek and Thompson Falls expressed unease as news of the discovery spread.
Local residents who frequent the Cooper Gulch area described it as a quiet, serene part of Sanders County — often used for hunting, hiking, and logging. “It’s pretty remote out there,” one local said. “Not many people go that far in unless they know the land really well. It’s a tough place to reach.”
Friends and acquaintances of John Tillotson have begun sharing condolences and memories online, describing him as a kind and hardworking man who loved the outdoors. Many expressed shock at the news, saying they were heartbroken to learn of his passing.
The Sanders County Sheriff’s Office is urging anyone who may have been in or around the Cooper Gulch area in the days leading up to November 4 to contact investigators if they observed any suspicious activity or unusual vehicles.
As the investigation continues, the community remains hopeful that answers will soon emerge to explain what happened to John Tillotson — a man whose life ended far too soon in one of Montana’s most remote and peaceful corners.
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