The search for missing doctor John Lawson Magruder has come to an end, but it is not the conclusion many were hoping for.
According to a Thursday press release from the Monongalia County Sheriff’s Department, the West Virginia State medical examiner confirmed the identity of the human remains found in Coopers Rock State Forest on Sept. 3 were that of the pediatric neurologist.
Mon County Sheriff Perry Palmer would not disclose Magruder’s official cause of death or comment on any details about the scene where the remains were found, such as any items that also were found with the remains.
The sheriff did make it clear to The Dominion Post that there was “no foul play suspected,” but did not elaborate.
The only additional information revealed by Palmer was the location where Magruder was recovered was two to two and a half miles from where his vehicle was found at Coopers Rock State Forest.
When the vehicle was initially found, an unsuccessful three-day search of the Coopers Rock area began on July 29, which covered 842 acres of the almost 13,000-acre forest. That search was called off by the sheriff’s department on Aug. 1.
Palmer did not comment on reasons that particular area of the forest was not included in the search but had previously told The Dominion Post the doctor’s family supported the decision to end the search.
The Magruder family asked for the continued respect of their desire for privacy.
News of the doctor’s passing has drawn many comments on social media from community members and families of his patients, expressing their love and appreciation of Magruder and his work, as well as condolences for his family and friends.
Magruder was a respected member of the WVU Medicine Children’s and the WVU Department of Pediatrics staff. The doctor’s specializations were said to include psychiatry and neurology with special qualifications in child neurology.
“We are heartbroken to learn of the passing of Dr. John Magruder, pediatric neurologist at WVU Medicine Children’s and the WVU Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute,” a WVU Medicine spokesperson said. “He was a valued member of the WVU Medicine family, and he will be greatly missed by his colleagues and patients. We extend our most sincere condolences to his family and friends during this incredibly difficult time.”
WVU Medicine did not provide information on the current status of Magruder’s position or patients’ care.
The Dominion Post will continue to follow up on any additional details that emerge surrounding the doctor’s death.
