Body of missing woman found in Rochester woods

Police say there are no signs of foul play in the death of Feroza Sherzai.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

The body of 28-year-old Feroza Sherzai was discovered in a wooded area near Highway 63 and County Road 16 in Rochester, Minnesota on Saturday. Sherzai had been reported missing on January 17 after she was last seen walking in that area. Police say there is no indication of foul play, and the Southern Minnesota Regional Medical Examiner's Office is working to determine the cause of death.

Why it matters

The discovery of Sherzai's body brings a tragic end to the search for the missing woman, raising questions about the circumstances surrounding her death. While police have not found evidence of foul play, the case highlights the importance of thorough investigations into missing persons reports to provide closure for families and communities.

The details

Feroza Sherzai, a 28-year-old woman, was reported missing on January 17 after she was last seen walking in the area near Highway 63 and County Road 16 in Rochester, Minnesota. On Saturday, her body was discovered in a wooded area in that same location. Police say there are no signs of foul play, and the medical examiner's office is working to determine the cause of death.

  • Sherzai was last seen on January 17, 2026.
  • Her body was found on February 9, 2026.

The players

Feroza Sherzai

A 28-year-old woman who was reported missing on January 17, 2026 and whose body was later found in a wooded area in Rochester, Minnesota.

Southern Minnesota Regional Medical Examiner's Office

The office responsible for determining the cause of Feroza Sherzai's death.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

This tragic case underscores the importance of thorough missing persons investigations and the need for communities to come together to support families during difficult times. While the circumstances around Sherzai's death remain unclear, her story serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the necessity of vigilance in protecting the most vulnerable members of our society.