Body Found On Osage County Ranch

Authorities are investigating after finding a body on a ranch in Osage County.

The family of a missing man said they believe it's their relative, Rick Holt, a rancher and well-known name in the town of Pawhuska.

While the Osage County Sheriff's Office investigates, Holt’s family said deputies have told them a body was found in a shallow grave on his property, but won't confirm it's Holt.

However, the family said they have no doubt it's their loved one.

Family and friends of the rancher said he was a hard worker and a great man who enjoyed life to the fullest.

Holt’s friend Terry Smith said, "He was real considerate towards people. People liked him and, like I said, he would do anything in the world to help someone,”

Smith said he's known Holt for over 30 years. Holt frequently ate at Smith's restaurant and he often saw him on the golf course.

"He'll always come up and shake your hand. He was a good man. People are going to miss that," said Smith.

When he first heard Holt was missing he thought it was odd, and now he's in disbelief after hearing a body was found on Holt's ranch.

"I didn't suspect this whatsoever. When they told me I was floored,” he said.

The family said deputies won't tell them much except that a body was found on Holt's property in a shallow grave behind his house.

Although deputies won't confirm the body is Holt, his family said they don't see how it couldn't be him.

They also said they've been told by deputies a suspect is in custody for his murder.

"It shouldn't have happened, whatever happened. He'll be missed, I'll miss him," Smith said.

The family has been told they will learn more details in the next three to five days.

In the meantime, friends are talking about planning a candlelight vigil.