Remains found in Ocala Forest believed to be missing Lake County man

The Brief

  • Human remains found in the Ocala National Forest are believed to be those of Michael Connell, a Lake County man missing since May 29, 2025.
  • Connell, who had a broken leg, was last seen near Kismet Road and CR-445, where his bicycle was later found.
  • The investigation remains active, and authorities are awaiting confirmation of the identity.

ORLANDO, Fla. Human remains discovered in the Ocala National Forest have been likely identified as Michael Connell, a Lake County man reported missing earlier this year, officials confirmed.

What we know:

Connell, 5 feet 9 inches tall and weighing approximately 185 pounds, was last seen on May 29 at the intersection of Kismet Road and County Road 445. He was wearing a brown camouflage jacket and dark blue cargo pants and was recovering from a broken leg sustained in a vehicle accident. He did not own a cellphone and was known to frequent the Umatilla Library.

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