From: Millbrook Police Department
On Wednesday June 17, 2026, Millbrook police responded to a report of a possible body observed in a small lake, which is bordered by the Lakeshore community and Sandtown Road. Responding officers did locate human remains, which were observed to be in the water, just off the shoreline, in the 2700 block of Sandtown Road. The scene was secured and the body was recovered with the assistance of Millbrook Fire Department personnel.
The remains, which appeared to be that of a black male adult, approximately 30 to 50 years of age, having no form of identification about their person, were recovered and turned over to the Alabama Department of Forensic Science, for identification and to determine cause of death. At the time of recovery, officers and detectives were unable to observe an obvious signs or indication that foul play was involved.
The initial press release in this case requested the public’s assistance regarding this case. Over the course of the past weekend, several citizens did come forward expressing concern with regard to an individual, who had not been seen for some time, to include an immediate family member.
On Monday, June 22, 2026, officials from the Alabama Department of Forensic Science contacted Millbrook detectives to advise that the decedent’s identification was confirmed to be Demetrius Bruce Zeigler, a 58 year-old Coosada resident. Millbrook police notified the victim’s family of his identification being confirmed.
At this time, the manner of the victim’s death is still under investigation. Over the weekend there have been a lot of rumors and speculation with regard to identity of the victim, the manner of death and how his remains came to be where he was located. This case, which is still classified as a Death Investigation, remains active. Now that the victim’s identity has been confirmed, the investigation will now be focused on ascertaining the manner or cause of the victim’s death.
The Millbrook Police Department is still seeking the public’s assistance in this case. Anyone that has any information regarding Mr. Zeigler is encouraged to contact the Millbrook Police Department at (334)285-6832 or they may contact our Secret Witness Line at (334)285-8500.
