Yoga instructor found dead after he disappeared while heading to blind date, friends say

PHOENIX (KPHO/Gray News) – A Phoenix yoga instructor was found dead weeks after he disappeared while friends say he was meeting a blind date.

On Tuesday, KPHO confirmed that Marcus Freiberger, 45, died on March 19, according to the Maricopa County Office of the Medical Examiner.

It is not known if foul play is suspected, and a cause of death is still pending.

On Tuesday, his family released a statement confirming his death:

“It is with a heavy heart that I share the tragic news that Marcus is no longer with us. Losing him feels like losing a part of ourselves and I know this will be just as difficult for you. We thank all of you for the love and support you have given Marcus and our family.”

Family and friends of Freiberger said he was last seen at a parking garage in Phoenix on Feb. 21 to meet a blind date.

Freiberger was a yoga instructor who recently started working at Melrose Yoga. His friends said he was moving apartments, getting back on his feet, and starting a new life with his dog, Thomas.

“It was just a wonderful season in his life, and it’s heartbreaking to think that somebody could have taken that away from him,” said his friend Gina Zucchet.

Prior to the news of his death, another friend named Amber, whose last name wasn’t given, said she was desperate to know what happened.

“There’s no way that he would have just left like this and willingly. He wouldn’t have done it,” Amber said.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Phoenix Police Department at 602-534-2121.

This is a developing story. More information to come.