Missing Grapevine man's body found in Colorado

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Jeffrey Pickering picture from Facebook

A body found in the mountains in Colorado is that of a missing Grapevine man.

44-year-old Jeffrey Pickering was found, near his vehicle,  deceased.  The sheriff's department is investigating but they do not suspect foul play, Grapevine police confirmed Sunday.

The search group that had been looking for Pickering posted this message on Facebook: 

"It is with great sadness that we're suspending our efforts as a body has been found within the search area that is likely Jeff. We're still awaiting final confirmation but we are not holding out much hope at this point. The family has asked to not be contacted right now. Thank you for being so willing to help Jeff. I hope that his family will find some solace in the massive response by his friends."

Pickering was hiking in the Chaffee County area of Colorado on or around September 3rd and was set to return to work September 5th, according to the Chaffee County Sheriff’s Department.

Grapevine police contacted the Chaffee County Communications Center on September 9th after he didn’t show up for work.

His vehicle was found near a trailhead and a search began September 10th, according to the Chaffee County Sheriff’s Department.