Lakeville man found deceased at George Washington Pines

On Nov.15, 2018, while on patrol, a Cook County Sheriff’s deputy noticed a vehicle parked in the parking area at the George Washington Pines Memorial Plantation. Upon approach of the vehicle, an unresponsive person was identified in the driver's seat. According to the Sheriff’s Office, entry was made into the vehicle and a deceased body was recovered with what appeared to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head.

A note was also recovered from the vehicle.

The victim has been identified as Mitchell Gene Johnston, 57, of Lakeville, Minn. The deceased man’s family has been notified.

U.S. Border Patrol, the U.S. Forest Service and Cook County Search & Rescue assisted with the call. 

“Our thoughts are with the family and friends of this man, as well as our responders,” said Sheriff Pat Eliasen. “Suicide can have significant emotional impacts for those left behind and certainly affects our local responders. We encourage anyone struggling with depression, mental health or considering suicide to seek help; there is always another answer.”

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline can be reached at any time at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).