OSBI closes investigation into Nowata County man’s death

NOWATA COUNTY, Okla. – The Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation investigation into the death of 42-year-old Jerry Gering has been closed by agents.

The body of an unknown male was found by hunters on August 29, 2017 in Nowata Public Wildlife Park. At that point, the Nowata County Sheriff’s Office requested OSBI investigative assistance.

The Oklahoma Medical Examiner’s Office was able to identify the remains as that of Gering, who had been missing since July 2017. At the time, his death was classified as suspicious and the investigation was open and ongoing over the past two years.

Recently, a witness came forward with information that was corroborated by agents and led to the conclusion that Gering’s death was a suicide. Based on the extensive investigation, there is no reason to believe a suspect is on the run, and the investigation will be closed.

The OSBI appreciates the Nowata County Sheriff’s Office and the assistance deputies provided during the course of the investigation.