Platte County Prosecutor Eric Zahnd Dies at 53. Found inside County Courthouse.

PLATTE CITY, Mo. — Platte County Prosecuting Attorney Eric Zahnd has died at the age of 53, according to reports released Thursday afternoon.

The Platte County Landmark reported around 3:15 p.m. Thursday that Platte County Sheriff Erik Holland had confirmed Zahnd’s death. Reports indicate that Mr. Zahnd was found deceased inside the county courthouse.

Following the announcement, Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway shared a statement expressing condolences to Zahnd’s family and recognizing his years of public service.

Hanaway said she had known Zahnd for many years and described him as a dedicated public servant who cared deeply about Platte County, public safety and the rule of law.

She also offered her thoughts and prayers to Zahnd’s wife, Tracy, and their sons, Benjamin and Luke, adding that the Attorney General’s Office is prepared to assist the Platte County Prosecutor’s Office during the transition.

Additional details surrounding Zahnd’s death had not been released at the time of the announcement.