Francesco Di Filippo Found Dead After Boating Tragedy in Wisconsin Dells

The search for two missing Chicago men who vanished while boating in the Wisconsin Dells earlier this year has come to a somber conclusion. On Sunday afternoon, authorities recovered the body of 20-year-old Francesco L. Di Filippo, nearly three months after the boating tragedy that claimed the life of his older companion and left a third person as the sole survivor.

The incident began on April 3, when a boat carrying three individuals capsized on the Wisconsin River, just south of the Kilbourn Dam, roughly an hour north of Madison. Conditions on the river that day were reported to be especially challenging, and the swift currents proved deadly for two of the boaters. One person managed to swim to shore and was promptly treated by emergency responders, but Francesco and 75-year-old Luis F. Di Filippo, both of Chicago, disappeared beneath the water’s surface and were not seen again—until now.

The first recovery took place shortly after the incident, when the body of Luis Di Filippo was pulled from the water following extensive search operations involving law enforcement agencies and trained volunteers. Over the following weeks, search crews continued combing the river and nearby areas using boats equipped with sonar, aerial and underwater drones, and shoreline search patrols. Despite these efforts, Francesco remained missing.

That changed on Sunday, when officers from the Lake Delton Police and Fire Departments responded to reports of a body spotted in the water near Newport Beach. At approximately 2:13 p.m., the body was confirmed to be that of Francesco Di Filippo, finally bringing an end to the uncertainty that had gripped his loved ones since early spring.

Authorities expressed their condolences in a heartfelt statement, acknowledging the deep sorrow surrounding the loss. “The Wisconsin Dells Police Department sends its deepest condolences to the Di Filippo/Schultz family,” the statement read. “While tragic, we hope that the recovery of Francesco provides a measure of closure for them.”

The boating accident left a lasting impact on the Wisconsin Dells community, a popular tourist destination known for its scenic waterways and outdoor activities. Local officials and residents have closely followed the search efforts, many offering support to the grieving family. The names of Francesco and Luis Di Filippo are now etched into the collective memory of both visitors and locals alike, a poignant reminder of the unpredictable power of nature and the importance of safety on the water.

While investigators have not released further details regarding the cause of the capsizing, the incident highlights the risks that can arise even during recreational outings. The tragedy underscores the necessity of proper safety measures, including the use of life jackets and awareness of river conditions, especially in areas where currents can turn treacherous without warning.

With the recovery of Francesco’s body, the story that began with a day on the river and ended in heartache now moves into remembrance. The Di Filippo family, and all those affected by the loss, can now begin the difficult process of healing with the knowledge that both loved ones have been brought home.