Body of Missing Putnam City School Teacher Found

News9.com

OKLAHOMA CITY -- The body of a missing Putnam City High School teacher was found on land near the man's home this morning, according to police.

A search team of friends found the body of John Michael "Mike" Knol, 59, in overgrown vegetation near Memorial Road and Coltrane Road.

Knol was reported missing a little over a week ago after he failed to show up for work at Putnam City High School where he taught for 12 years.

Investigators said they do no suspect foul play and believe Knol died of natural causes. The medical examiner will determine the exact cause of his death.

However, police said the investigation is not over just yet.

"All those reports will be given to the DA and we'll make a determination on if this is truly a natural death or if this was some sort of foul play," said Oklahoma Police Lt. Don Holland. "Right now the preliminary investigation shows that he died of natural causes. Why he was out in the woods, we're not real sure yet.

Family friend Bob Settles said Knol's friends and family are thankful to have closure, but they are deeply grieving his death.

Putnam City schools will hold a special meeting Monday morning. Additional counselors will be at school to assist grieving students.

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