Juneau County officials are asking the public for any leads regarding the disappearance of Leya Stewart, a 43‑year‑old resident of Lemonweir Township who vanished on July 4, 2023. The case was highlighted in the latest episode of the locally produced podcast “True Crime Wisconsin,” which airs each Tuesday.
What is known about the disappearance
Stewart was last seen walking on foot around 2 p.m. on Independence Day near the intersection of 43rd Street and 19th Avenue in Lemonweir Township, just outside New Lisbon. She left her phone, shoes and cigarettes at a friend’s house and has not been heard from since.
According to the Juneau County Sheriff’s Office, Stewart stands about 5‑feet‑5‑inches tall, weighs roughly 150 pounds, has hazel eyes, brown hair, pierced ears, and three tattoos: one on her right shoulder, another on her right leg, and a back piece featuring flowers and two names.
Investigation update
Detective Shaun Goyette, the lead investigator, spoke with WMTV reporter Tabitha Bland more than three years after Stewart vanished. Goyette explained that much of the information received over the years has been hearsay, making it difficult to move the case beyond a missing‑persons investigation.
He emphasized that the search remains active and that hunters, hikers, and other visitors to the area should report anything that appears out of place. “If you see something that doesn’t belong, no matter how small, please call us,” Goyette said.
How the public can help
The Sheriff’s Office has provided a dedicated phone line for tips: (608) 847‑5649. Calls can be made at any time, and the department assures callers that all information will be treated confidentially.
True Crime Wisconsin podcast
The episode featuring Stewart’s case is part of a weekly series that examines unsolved crimes and missing‑person cases throughout the state. Listeners can access the podcast on Apple Podcasts, iHeart, Spotify, and YouTube. The series aims to raise awareness and generate new information that could aid investigations.
Community response
Friends and family of Stewart have expressed hope that renewed attention will bring answers. They maintain that Stewart did not leave the area alive and continue to search for closure.
Anyone with information, no matter how minor it may seem, is encouraged to contact the Juneau County Sheriff’s Office. The community’s cooperation could be the key to solving this lingering mystery.
Original reporting: NBC15 WMTV (Gray) – local — read the source article.
