An elementary school teacher from Kansas, Rebecca Rauber, has tragically been found dead, according to information from the Emporia Police Department.

As reported by KAKE, officers discovered Rauber’s body approximately 300 yards south of West 4th Avenue in Emporia early Sunday morning, at about 1:13 a.m. Her remains were located in a wooded area, blanketed by snow following a recent storm.

Previously, CrimeOnline had reported that Rauber was last seen with a friend at the Town Royal tavern on Friday night, situated at 405 Commercial Street. Emporia Police Sergeant Marcial Hernandez confirmed that she arrived at the bar around 11 p.m.

Later, surveillance cameras captured Rauber walking on West Fifth Avenue at approximately 11:37 p.m., shortly after she departed from the tavern.

The Emporia Police Department released a statement expressing their gratitude: “The next of kin has been notified. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the community for their support and assistance during this difficult time. We also wish to thank the Kansas Highway Patrol, the Lyon County Sheriff’s Office, Search and Rescue of Kansas, and the Lyon County Communications Center for their dedicated efforts in searching for Rebecca.”

The statement continued, “All involved agencies devoted many hours and resources with the hope of a positive outcome. Our thoughts and prayers are sincerely with the Rauber family.”

KY3 reports that police said she likely died from hypothermia. An autopsy is pending.

According to Emporia Public Schools, Rauber served as a second-grade teacher at Riverside Elementary School.

Assistance is available for Emporia State at the Student Wellness Center through the student wellness portal . Students can call the center at 620-341-5222.

The investigation continues. Check back for updates.

[Feature Photo via Emporia PD]