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Eric Zahnd, longtime Platte County Prosecutor, dies
Eric Zahnd, the longest-serving prosecuting attorney in Platte County, Missouri, has died. The Platte County Sheriff’s Office confirmed his death on Thursday afternoon and stated that a death investigation is currently underway at the Platte County Courthouse. Authorities have not yet released specific details regarding the circumstances of his passing.
Zahnd had served as the county's prosecutor since 2002. During his tenure, he was recognized as Missouri’s Prosecutor of the Year in 2014 and was instrumental in the passage of Jessica’s Law, which increased penalties for child rape. He also prosecuted the only quadruple murder in the county's history. Zahnd had previously announced plans to retire from his position on December 31, 2026.
Following the announcement, Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway, Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas, and other local officials expressed their condolences, praising his character and dedication to public safety.
Entities
Catherine Hanaway · Eric Zahnd · Platte County Courthouse · Platte County Prosecutor’s Office · Platte County Sheriff’s Office
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 3 SOURCES] Zahnd was the longest-serving prosecuting attorney in Platte County history. timesng.com · abc17news.com · www.timesnownews.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] Eric Zahnd has died. timesng.com · www.timesnownews.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Zahnd had announced his retirement from office effective December 31, 2026. www.timesnownews.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] The Platte County Landmark was the first to report the death. timesng.com · www.timesnownews.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] Zahnd was named Missouri’s Prosecutor of the Year in 2014. timesng.com · www.timesnownews.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] A death investigation is underway at the Platte County Courthouse. timesng.com · www.timesnownews.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] Zahnd served as prosecuting attorney since 2002. timesng.com · abc17news.com · www.timesnownews.com