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Remains found near Green Mountain in Lakewood identified as paramedic missing since 2016

Eric Pracht worked for the South Park Ambulance District when he went missing in 2016.
25-year-old Eric Randolph Pracht

LAKEWOOD, Colo. — Human remains found in Lakewood Thursday have been identified as Eric Pracht, a paramedic who worked for the South Park Ambulance District (SPAD), according to a post on the SPAD Facebook page.

The Jefferson County Coroner's Office was able to identify the remains as Pracht by using dental identification A cause of death has not yet been determined. 

"It is with great [sadness] that we report the death of Paramedic Eric Pracht," a post on SPAD's Facebook page read. "Yesterday his remains were found near the south base of Green Mountain in Lakewood. Eric has been missing since July 22, 2016. Eric was an outstanding person and a gifted paramedic. He dedicated his life to serving others. He will not be forgotten."

Lakewood Police did not suspect foul play at the time of Pracht's disappearance. 

A hiker found the remains near William F. Hayden Park on Green Mountain, near the intersection of West Utah Avenue and West Alameda Parkway, according to Lakewood Police Department spokesperson John Romero.

This is near two of the parking lots that access the trails at Green Mountain.

Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, Green Mountain has remained open for hikers and mountain hikers. The City of Lakewood-owned open space has started limiting crowds there during peak times to ensure proper social distancing.

It is the second largest park in Lakewood and has 2,400 acres of open space.

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