Former University of Maine Student Found Deceased

It's a sad ending to the search for a missing Orono man.

Former University of Maine Student Reported Missing in January from Orono Apartments

Chance Lauer, 19, was last seen at his Orchard Trails apartment complex on January 19, 2026.

Police agencies, search and rescue teams, and residents conducted searches after his disappearance, but were unable to locate him.

University of Maine officials tell us Mr. Lauer was not enrolled at the school at the time of his disappearance, but had been enrolled through December 2025.

Orono, Maine Police Recover Deceased Man's Remains From a Pond

On March 17, 2026, Orono Police were notified by a citizen and responded to a retention pond near the apartment complex.

When they arrived, they discovered a deceased person. The Maine Warden Service aided the police in the recovery.

The remains were then taken to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, where an examination confirmed the identity of the deceased as Chance Lauer.

No Foul Play Suspected in Death of University of Maine Student

Police say, at this point, there's nothing suspicious about the death.

Orono Police offered thanks to several agencies and residents who have aided in the searches for the missing teen.

We join the Orono Police Department and Town of Orono in extending our sincerest condolences to Mr. Lauer's family and friends.

Our thoughts are with the entire University of Maine community as they deal with this tragic loss.