Body found in A.L. cemetery identified as missing Mapleton man

Published 2:21 pm Wednesday, February 17, 2016

Authorities respond to a report of a deceased person in a vehicle at Graceland Cemetery Wednesday afternoon. — Kelly Wassenberg/Albert Lea Tribune

A missing Mapleton man was found deceased in a car Wednesday afternoon in Graceland Cemetery in Albert Lea.

The man, identified as Allan Nielsen, 58, had reportedly last been seen at 7:30 a.m. Tuesday.

The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension issued a missing persons alert about Nielsen earlier Wednesday. He had not had contact with his family — which was out of character for him — and authorities were concerned for his welfare.

Allan Nielsen

An updated BCA notice sent out at 6:45 p.m. Wednesday stated Nielsen was found deceased in the cemetery. It said there was no danger to the public.

The Albert Lea Police Department will investigate Nielsen’s death.

Albert Lea police were dispatched to the cemetery in western Albert Lea at 12:55 p.m. Wednesday on a report of a person who was believed to be deceased in a 2007 white Chevy Cobalt.

A few hours later, police stated foul play was not suspected.

Members of the Minnesota State Patrol and Gold Cross Ambulance crews were also on scene.

Look to the Tribune for more information as it becomes available.