Search efforts for a missing Loveland man, Carl Smith, have ended after authorities spent several days searching the Larimer County landfill. Smith, 57, was reported missing on January 17, 2026. The Larimer County Sheriff’s Office determined through investigation and security footage that Smith entered a dumpster in Loveland or unincorporated Larimer County and did not exit before a garbage truck collected the contents and transported them to the landfill.
The search at the landfill lasted four days and involved multiple agencies including LCSO investigators, the forensics team, Emergency Services Phantom Canyon crew, Larimer County Search & Rescue (LCSAR), the Coroner’s Office, and Solid Waste staff. The operation used hand tools, heavy equipment, cadaver dogs, and drones to examine approximately 10,000 cubic yards of waste where the truck had deposited its load. Despite these efforts, Smith was not found.
“While many questions remain unanswered, our team went to considerable efforts in hopes of locating Mr. Smith,” said Larimer County Sheriff John Feyen. “We couldn’t have gone to such lengths without the hard manual labor of our crew and help of our partners at Larimer County Solid Waste and LCSAR. All human life holds value, and these folks demonstrated that through their unwavering dedication to this tough operation.”
Authorities stated that there is no evidence of foul play related to Smith’s disappearance and indicated there is no threat to public safety. The reason why Smith entered the dumpster remains unknown. He is still classified as a missing person.
Anyone with information about this case is encouraged to contact LCSO Investigator Brent Manley at 970-498-5336.
