A Decade Later Investigators Renew Appeal for Information in Tom Bearson’s Unsolved Case

(KNSI) — Ten years after his death, investigators are renewing the call for anyone with information about Tom Bearson’s case to please come forward.

Bearson, a Sartell native, was last seen with friends and fellow students in the early morning hours of September 20th, 2014, at a North Dakota State University off-campus residence. Later that morning, police were contacted when he didn’t show up for a ride to visit family in Alexandria. Three days later, Tom’s remains were discovered at the Moorhead RV Sales parking lot.

In a press release, it says investigators with the Moorhead Police Department, with assistance from the Clay County Sheriff’s Office, Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, have worked diligently to follow up on every tip. They say they remain open to all possible scenarios regarding Bearson’s death and continue to pursue every investigative avenue.

Police say they’re reviewing evidence previously collected to utilize recent advancements in DNA technology but add they believe there is information regarding his time at NDSU and the circumstances around his death that have not been shared.

Those familiar with what happened may have had some changes in behavior, like suddenly becoming moody, anxious, nervous or irritable. There may have been an alteration in their physical appearance, such as a drastic haircut or color or growing or removing facial hair. They may have had a change in routine, including missing work, class or appointments, or unexplained injuries like cuts on their hands or bruising around the time Bearson was last seen alive. They may have also become either intensely interested or disinterested in the investigation.

Police say people often have information but don’t come forward because they think what they know isn’t significant or important or maybe was already shared by someone else. They can also be hesitant to provide details because of close relationships with those who may have been involved or out of concern for their own safety or reputation. People may also be unknowingly brought into a situation by others. Investigators say relationships and loyalties can change, as do people and their perspectives.

Whatever detail someone may have could lead to the answers and justice the Bearson family has been looking for for the last decade.

There is a designated phone line and email address to contact. The phone number is 218-299-5119, and the email address is bearson@moorheadmn.gov. Anonymous tips can be left via text message for the Moorhead Police Department by sending the words TIPMOORHEAD to 847411.

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