University of Pittsburgh Medical Student Found Dead After Disappearance

PITTSBURGH, Pa. — The body of Luis Espinoza, a 30-year-old medical student at the University of Pittsburgh, was found Friday morning near South Side Park, four days after he was reported missing. The Allegheny County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed the discovery along the 100 block of Sterling Street, but no cause of death has been released.

Espinoza was last seen on Jan. 20 walking his Dobermann near South Side Park. Surveillance footage captured him wearing a black peacoat and black pants. His dog was later found running alone on Sterling Street and was picked up by animal control. “To me, it was like the dog was trying to get help,” said his sister, Jacqueline Espinoza.

Espinoza’s family grew concerned after failing to reach him since Jan. 18. His father traveled from New York to Pittsburgh and requested a wellness check. Police found Espinoza’s apartment door open, with his cards, cash, and car keys still inside. Neighbors reported his car had not moved in three days, and the university confirmed he had not attended classes that week.

On Thursday, the family brought Espinoza’s dog back to the park, hoping it would lead them to him. “He just kept crying and pulling toward that way,” Jacqueline said. Despite extensive searches by police and family, no trace of Espinoza was found until his body was discovered Friday.

Pittsburgh police are investigating the circumstances surrounding his death. Authorities urge anyone with information to contact 911.