Body of missing Broward firefighter found in Jupiter Farms

JUPITER FARMS, Fla. – A decomposed body found in Jupiter Farms is that of James “Jim” Von Minden, a Broward firefighter who had gone missing after crashing his truck Friday, officials confirmed.

A BSO fire chief told Local 10 News that the body found was Von Minden’s, and the local firefighter’s and paramedics association also announced his passing.

Von Minden would have celebrated 30 years with the department later this week

The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office is investigating but was waiting for an autopsy before officially identifying the body.

Police said the manner of death is believed to be suicide.

Von Minden, an employee with the Broward Sheriff’s Office since 1990, went missing after crashing his own truck against a tree near Randolph Siding Road and Alexander Run in Jupiter Farms at 5:30 p.m. Friday while he was off-duty. He was seen “disoriented” around that time, police say.

The decomposed body was found near the NW Corner of Randolph Siding Road and Haine Lane, PBSO said.

Friends and coworkers had joined PBSO to search the surrounding wooded area over the past few days.

A statement made by Von Minden’s wife Angela was released late Tuesday night:

“We are heartbroken and devastated with this outcome. We do find comfort knowing he was loved by so many, especially his son Bradley. His Dad was his hero. The family would like to thank the police, firefighters, volunteers, the Jupiter Farms community and most importantly Broward Sheriff Fire Rescue for the search for our beloved Jim. Jim gave 30 years of his life serving his community in fire rescue. It was heartwarming to witness the outpouring of love for Jim.”