26-year-old Chad Stroup was an outdoorsman, according to his parents. Ironically, he was found dead in a place where he found peace.
Chad’s parents tell us their son left for Michaux State Forest Tuesday morning to scout hunting spots. He was looking forward to a hunting season full of father-son bonding time. When Chad didn’t return home Tuesday night, his parents called police. For 18 hours, about 100 people scoured the area looking for Stroup. Police say the man’s body was found Wednesday afternoon in a creek, just inches deep, with no signs of foul play.
One day later, Stroup’s parents tell CBS-21 News they’re at the beginning of a likely never-ending healing process. They tell us their son loved life, the outdoors and wood-working. He had his own business. Chad built the deck off the back of his parent’s home. The work he loved to do, is now a constant reminder to family and friends of the loved-one they lost.
Stroup is a 2002 graduate of Hempfield High School. He recently picked up a full-time job at Friendly’s, in addition to his owning his own business, Chad Stroup Handyman Services.
Stroup’s parents tell us their son had no known medical condition. They also explain he knew the area of the forest well. Chad had visited the spot three weeks in a row. Chad’s parents say the area is rugged, steep and potentially dangerous.
The Stroups say they’re grateful for all of the support they have received during this difficult time. They tell us they cannot put into words how much it meant to them to see 100 people turnout to help search for their son Wednesday.
An autopsy on Stroup’s body is expected to be performed Friday morning. Stay with CBS-21 News for the latest.
