Randal Evans, R.I.P.: Marathon Runner Found Dead in Boulder

A search in Boulder for a missing man has ended tragically. The body of Randal Evans, a 52-year-old marathon runner, was found near Cobalt Trail north of the city. On Tuesday, the Boulder Police Department issued an alert for Evans, who was last seen near his residence on the 1600...

By Michael Roberts

February 20, 2015

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A search in Boulder for a missing man has ended tragically.

The body of Randal Evans, a 52-year-old marathon runner, was found near Cobalt Trail north of the city.

On Tuesday, the Boulder Police Department issued an alert for Evans, who was last seen near his residence on the 1600 block of Zamia Avenue, in northwest Boulder, at about 10 a.m. on Friday, February 13.

A dedicated marathoner, he often ran the trail behind Dakota Ridge.

When Evans didn't return from his run as expected, his relatives contacted police. They noted that he'd left home without either his wallet or his cell phone, and no one had been able to reach him.
Then, at about 7:15 a.m. yesterday, another runner on the Cobalt Trail reportedly headed up a hill on the trail, near the 5600 block of North Broadway, to take some photos of the sunrise.

There, he found a body partially covered in snow. The Boulder coroner's office has now identified it as Evans.

At this point, the cause of death hasn't been announced, but authorities say there's no sign of foul play.

Our condolences to Evans's friends, family and loved ones.

Look below to see a Boulder Daily Camera video about the discovery of the body.

Send your story tips to the author, Michael Roberts.

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Michael Roberts began his career with Westword in 1990 as music editor. In 1999, he took on a new role, full-time media reporter, as author of a column called The Message. In 2008, he became the lead writer for Westword's news blog, The Latest Word, a position he held until January 2023. Michael continues to freelance for Westword, covering everything from business to sports and the media; he also contributes to Jazziz, a national music magazine. He holds a bachelor's degree from what is now Colorado Mesa University and master's degrees from the University of California, Los Angeles, and Northwestern University.

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