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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Body of missing Moses Lake man found in reservoir

Authorities today found what they believe to be the body of a Moses Lake man missing since Dec. 23. A remote-controlled underwater robot found the body today about 4 p.m. in Potholes Reservoir near the north shore west of Samson’s Beach. Clothing and other identifying factors leads investigators to believe the body is that of Dan Toya, 64. Investigators believe Toya accidentally fell into the water while trying to rescue his golden retriever, Molly. The dog was found dead on Sunday. An autopsy is expected Tuesday. “I am so sorry for Dan’s family and friends,” Grant County Sheriff Tom Jones said in a prepared statement. “I hope this discovery brings them closure to a long three months of uncertainty. Dan was such a blessing in the lives of his loved ones, and I pray his family and friends find peace.” The sheriff’s office said parts of the lake are covered in ice and while some have speculated Toya might have broken through, it’s unclear if that’s how he ended up in the water.