LAPEL — The bodies of an Indianapolis man and woman missing since mid-December have been found in a field east of Lapel, according to the Madison County Sheriff Department.

Heavan Henderson, 21, and Jeremy Danowski, 23, both of Indianapolis, had been missing since Dec. 18.

Sheriff Scott Mellinger said county law enforcement agencies had conducted several searches for the couple, after their car was found parked in Lapel, but it was an emergency call from a man snowmobiling Thursday that led police to the location of the bodies.

“At 4:15 p.m. today 911 dispatch received a phone call from a man who had been snowmobiling south of County Road 200 S. between 825 W. and 700 W.,” according to Mellinger. “The caller indicated he had found what appeared to be a body along the fence row approximately 250 yards south of County Road 200 S.”

Mellinger stated deputies arrived to find two bodies, which later were identified as those of the missing couple.

“From all appearances the couple could have been there since the time they were reported missing,” according to Mellinger. “There is no indication at this point that any other person might have been involved.”

Mellinger stated a handgun was found near the bodies, which were face down, partially covered in snow and in what appeared to be an embrace. Detectives were processing the scene to determine if there is any other evidence.

He said it was speculation to say what exactly transpired; he said there was still much investigation to be done and facts to be determined, such as which person died first.

“The handgun found near the bodies has been identified as the one purchased by the couple just days prior to them being reported missing,” according to Mellinger. “There were two spent shells also found on the ground near the bodies. Lapel PD and Sheriff’s detectives are continuing the investigation.”