Man Missing After Entering Dumpster in Colorado

Authorities searched landfill for nearly a month but could not locate the missing man.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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A 57-year-old man from Loveland, Colorado named Carl Smith went missing nearly a month ago after he was last seen on security footage getting into a dumpster and never getting out. Authorities spent four days searching the Larimer County landfill but were unable to locate Smith, and he remains missing.

Why it matters

This case highlights the challenges law enforcement faces when investigating missing persons cases, especially when the person's last known location is a dumpster that was then emptied into a landfill. It raises questions about safety protocols for dumpsters and waste disposal to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The details

On January 17, the Larimer County Sheriff's Office received a report of a missing man, Carl Smith, from Loveland, Colorado. Security footage showed Smith getting into a dumpster in unincorporated Larimer County and never getting out. A garbage truck later arrived and emptied the dumpster, taking its contents to the Larimer County landfill. Search and rescue teams spent four days searching the landfill using hand tools, heavy equipment, cadaver dogs, and drones, but they were unable to locate Smith. Authorities do not suspect foul play but are still investigating the incident.

  • On January 17, the Larimer County Sheriff's Office received a report of Carl Smith's disappearance.
  • Security footage showed Smith getting into a dumpster on an unknown date prior to January 17.
  • The dumpster was emptied by a garbage truck shortly after Smith entered it.
  • Search and rescue teams searched the Larimer County landfill for four days starting on an unknown date after January 17.
  • As of February 16, 2026, Carl Smith remains missing.

The players

Carl Smith

A 57-year-old man from Loveland, Colorado who went missing after being seen on security footage entering a dumpster.

Larimer County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency that investigated Carl Smith's disappearance and coordinated the search efforts at the landfill.

Larimer County Landfill

The landfill where authorities searched for Carl Smith after he was last seen entering a dumpster.

Larimer County Search & Rescue (LCSAR)

The search and rescue team that assisted in the multi-day search operation at the Larimer County landfill.

John Feyen

The Larimer County Sheriff who commented on the extensive search efforts to locate Carl Smith.

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What they’re saying

“While many questions remain unanswered, our team went to considerable efforts in hopes of locating Mr. Smith. 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.”

— John Feyen, Larimer County Sheriff (wsav.com)

What’s next

Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding Carl Smith's disappearance and are asking the public for any information that could help locate him.

The takeaway

This case highlights the challenges law enforcement faces when investigating missing persons cases, especially when the last known location is a dumpster that was emptied into a landfill. It underscores the need for improved safety protocols and coordination between waste management and emergency services to prevent similar tragic incidents in the future.