March 9, 2025

Tragic Discovery of Missing Man in Covington Amid Development Project

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News Summary

The body of Brandon Sistrunk, who went missing on February 24, was found at a construction site in Covington. Concurrently, the Covington City Commission approved an $8.545 million development project for the Central Riverfront site, aimed at revitalizing the area with new homes and mixed-use spaces, providing a glimmer of hope amidst the community’s shock over the tragic discovery.

Tragic Discovery: Body of Missing Man Found at Covington Site

In a devastating turn of events, the body of Brandon Sistrunk, who was reported missing on February 24, has been discovered at a construction site in Covington. The grim find was made on Tuesday afternoon, sparking concerns and speculations in the local community.

Sistrunk was initially reported missing in Rockdale County, with his last known whereabouts documented several days prior to the alert. A construction worker stumbled upon the lifeless figure and notified the authorities around 2:30 p.m., believing that the individual was a homeless man. Upon arrival, deputies quickly realized the severity of the situation.

The medical examiner’s office is now undertaking an investigation to determine the cause of death. However, preliminary assessments suggest that there is no suspicion of foul play involved in this troubling case. Identification of Sistrunk’s body was facilitated through the use of a fingerprint scanner by Covington police, shedding light on an incident that has left many in shock.

Covington’s Ambitious Development Project Takes Center Stage

Amidst the backdrop of this tragic event, the Covington City Commission has approved an ambitious development project worth $8.545 million. This initiative is set to breathe new life into the Central Riverfront Development site, which is located on the former IRS building. The project will feature 10 single-family homes and two mixed-use buildings, heralding a new era for the area.

The development agreement was reached with the Covington Pointe Joint Venture, primarily driven by the Funke Real Estate Group. As part of this agreement, approximately one acre of land will be sold for $1.44 million, with the developer responsible for half this amount upfront and the remainder to be paid upon completion of the first construction phase.

Construction is slated to begin in May 2025, with the first homes expected to be completed by September 2025. The new properties are projected to have substantial market value, with estimated sales prices of around $600,000 for detached homes, $375,000 for condominiums, and $250,000 for commercial buildings. A public plaza and extensive green spaces will be incorporated, enhancing the area’s appeal.

The city of Covington will oversee the initial filling, grading, and infrastructure work necessary for the development, setting the stage for this transformative project. Excitingly, discussions are underway with the popular Cincinnati-based coffee shop, Black Coffee Lounge, which may take residence in one of the newly planned mixed-use buildings.

Reimagining the Landscape: A Vision for the Future

This development is part of a grander initiative to revitalize the 23-acre site that formerly housed the IRS processing center, which shuttered in 2016. The demolition of the center has opened up opportunities for a mixed-use area, interspersing offices, residential spaces, retail venues, public plazas, and parks along the Northern Kentucky riverfront.

Covington’s local government is keen to create a new neighborhood that synergizes with existing structures, thereby enhancing connectivity and overall livability. The IRS center once played a pivotal role in the local economy, supporting thousands of jobs before its closure.

Over the winter, a significant amount of infrastructure work has been done, including the transportation of 27,000 cubic yards of fill dirt to elevate the site to the level of the Ohio River floodwall. Looking ahead, the city will focus on further filling, constructing essential infrastructure, and designing the street grid and public plaza.

The first phase of infrastructure development is anticipated to reach completion by September 2025, marking a significant milestone in the rejuvenation of Covington’s riverfront. As the community grapples with the loss of Sistrunk, the promise of new opportunity and revitalization looms large on the horizon.