Platte County Prosecutor Eric Zahnd Was Under Criminal Investigation at Time of Death

PLATTE CITY, Mo. — The Missouri State Highway Patrol has confirmed that longtime Platte County Prosecuting Attorney Eric Zahnd was the subject of an active criminal investigation when he was found dead inside the Platte County Courthouse Thursday.

According to the Highway Patrol, its Division of Drug and Crime Control received a request on June 15, 2026, to investigate criminal allegations involving Zahnd.

The Highway Patrol has not disclosed what allegations were being investigated.

“This investigation is still considered active and ongoing,” an MSHP spokesperson said, adding that additional information would not be released at this time in order to protect the integrity of the investigation.

No criminal charges had been filed against Zahnd as of Friday.

Zahnd, 53, was found dead inside the Platte County Courthouse on Thursday, September 17. The discovery prompted authorities to clear and close the courthouse while the Platte County Sheriff’s Office began a death investigation. Officials said there was no threat to the public.

Media reports citing unnamed sources have reported that Zahnd died by suicide. However, law enforcement officials have not publicly released an official cause or method of death.

Zahnd had served as Platte County prosecuting attorney since 2002, making him the longest-serving prosecutor in the county’s history. Earlier this year, he announced plans to leave the position at the end of 2026.

Following Zahnd’s death, longtime First Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Mark Gibson was named interim prosecuting attorney. Gibson will serve in the position until Missouri Gov. Mike Kehoe appoints a permanent replacement.

The Platte County Courthouse remained closed Friday and is expected to reopen Monday.

The Highway Patrol’s investigation into the criminal allegations involving Zahnd remains active.

Authorities have not indicated whether Zahnd’s death has any connection to that investigation.