A missing rural Red Wing man thought to be in the Diamond Bluff/Hager City area was found dead of a single self-inflicted gunshot wound on his property Monday, Nov. 26.

Brad Nagel, 57, was reported missing at 5:15 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 16 after he didn’t show up for a work commitment. The last time anyone heard from him was 11:30 p.m. Nov. 15. According to a Goodhue County Sheriff’s Office news release, through receipts, eyewitness accounts, and surveillance video it was believed Nagel’s last known location was in Red Wing at 7:40 a.m. Nov. 16 as he walked down a street alone.

More than 150 volunteers gathered Saturday, Nov. 18 to search more than 1,000 square miles for him. His truck was located and recovered from the Wisconsin Back Channel of the Mississippi River on Nov. 19. Authorities were not certain when the vehicle went into the water.

Over the Thanksgiving weekend, Pierce County Sheriff’s Office searched the area where the vehicle was located, but Nagel was not found.  

The Goodhue County Sheriff’s Office expressed gratitude to PCSO, Environmental Learning Center, Ellsworth Fire Department, Red Wing Ambulance, Northstar Search and Rescue, Siewert’s Towing, Southern MN Regional Medical Examiner’s Office and countless volunteers for their help in the search for Nagel.

Nagel was a longtime instructor at Environmental Learning Center in Red Wing, an organization dedicated to outdoor programming and education. A statement on their Facebook page reads:

“Brad was not just a mentor but a guiding light to our students and staff, his presence shaping the very essence of our ELC family.

“As we grapple with this profound loss, let us remember Brad for the passion and dedication he poured into our lives. He remains a source of inspiration, guiding us through the memories and lessons he shared. The outpouring of support from the Goodhue County Sheriff's Office, the countless searchers, and the collaboration with the Red Wing Public Schools embodies the unity and strength within our wider community.

“In the wake of this tragedy, we stand together, offering solace to the Nagel family and all those deeply affected by Brad's untimely departure. Our commitment to supporting one another remains unwavering. We are working diligently with school districts to ensure counseling and support services are readily available for anyone in need.”

A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 2 at the Church of St. Joseph. Visitation will be held 4-7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 1 at Mahn Family Funeral Home, Bodelson-Mahn Chapel and for one hour prior to the service.