Missouri AG announces death of Platte County prosecutor

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway announced on Thursday that Platte County Prosecutor Eric Zahnd has died.

Information on the county’s website says Zahnd was the longest-serving prosecutor in the county’s history, being originally elected in 2002.

“I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Platte County Prosecutor Eric Zahnd,” Hanaway wrote on her social media. “I have known Eric for many years and have always held him in the highest regard. Eric was a true patriot, a person of remarkable character and integrity, and a public servant who cared deeply about his community. We are very grateful for his dedication to public safety, the rule of law, and Platte County.”

The Platte County, Missouri, Republican Central Committee also announced Zahnd’s death on Thursday on social media.

"I have been informed that Prosecutor Eric Zahnd has died. More information will be forthcoming as they become available. Please keep his family in your prayers," the group announced.  

Cole County Prosecutor Locke Thompson, who is the president-elect of the Missouri Association of Prosecuting Attorneys, gave his condolences in a statement to ABC 17 News.

“Eric was a great prosecutor and an even better friend and mentor. It’s a devastating loss to our profession and my prayers are with his friends and family,” Thompson said.

Check back for updates.