In Loving Memory of Nyay Meh: 37-Year-Old Woman Found Deceased in Cedar River Near Austin, Minnesota
AUSTIN, MN — The Mower County community is mourning the tragic death of Nyay Meh, a 37-year-old woman who was reported missing nearly a week before she was found deceased in the Cedar River. Her body was recovered on Saturday, July 26, 2025, near the 18000 block of Highway 105, just south of Austin, Minnesota, bringing a heartbreaking end to a multi-agency search effort.
According to Mower County Sheriff Steve Sandvik, Meh had been reported missing on July 20 by the Austin Police Department. As the days passed without any confirmed sightings or contact, concern grew among her family, friends, and the broader Austin community.
On Saturday, search and recovery crews located a body in the river during a search operation coordinated by local and state authorities. The remains were later identified as Nyay Meh.
The Austin Fire Department, members of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR), and the Southeast Minnesota Regional Medical Examiner’s Office assisted with the recovery and initial investigation.
Investigation Underway
Sheriff Sandvik stated that at this time, there is no indication of foul play in Meh’s death. However, a thorough investigation remains ongoing to determine the exact circumstances surrounding her disappearance and death. Authorities have not yet released details about how long Meh had been in the river or the results of any preliminary autopsy.
“We are working carefully and respectfully to provide answers,” said Sandvik. “Our priority is ensuring her family receives the truth and closure they deserve.”
A Grieving Family, A Mournful Community
News of Meh’s death has deeply saddened the local community. Friends described her as a warm, gentle soul who brought light to those around her. Nyay Meh was part of the diverse and growing immigrant community in Austin, where she was known for her kindness, strong faith, and generosity.
“She had a quiet strength and a beautiful heart,” one community member shared. “She always checked on others, even when she had her own struggles.”
Sheriff Sandvik extended heartfelt condolences, saying, “Our thoughts are with the family and loved ones of Nyay Meh during this difficult time.”
Call for Compassion and Patience
In the wake of this tragedy, community leaders are asking for support, compassion, and patience as investigators work to uncover more information. Mental health and grief resources are being made available to community members, especially those close to Meh, who are navigating this sudden and devastating loss.
Nyay Meh’s death is a painful reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of community in times of sorrow. Her memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved her, and her story will remain a call for unity and support in the face of heartbreak.
The Mower County Sheriff’s Office encourages anyone who may have seen or spoken with Nyay Meh between July 20 and July 26 to contact their office with any information that might assist the ongoing investigation.
As the community gathers to remember and honor Nyay Meh’s life, her family asks for privacy and continued prayers in this time of immense grief.
