Man Who Went Missing After Super Bowl Party Found Dead Near NFL Stadium

Originally posted on The Spun | By Chris Rosvoglou | Last updated Feb 28, 2026 1:57 PM ET

Earlier this month, a California man went missing after attending a Super Bowl party. It was sadly announced this week that he was found dead.

Thomas Simpkins, 44, reportedly showed up to a friend’s barbecue in San Jose for Super Bowl LX between the New England Patriots and Seattle Seahawks. The authorities believe he returned home later that night, but he didn't show up to work the next day. Shortly after he disappeared, his 19-year-old son reported him missing.

Unfortunately, Simpkins' body was found by the Santa Clara Police Department in San Tomas Aquino Creek near Levi’s Stadium, the home of the San Francisco 49ers.

“It is with heavy hearts that we share the unexpected passing of our beloved Tommy,” Simpkins' family wrote, via GoFundMe. “He was a deeply loved son, brother, husband, father, and friend. His kindness, strength, and unwavering love for his family touched everyone who knew him.”

Jan 29, 2026; Santa Clara, California, USA; A general overall aerial view of Levi's Stadium, the site of Super Bowl 60 between the New England Patriots and the Seattle Seahawks. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images© Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

The Simpkins family is searching for answers.

Simpkins' sister, Brandi Stroud, spoke to NBC Bay Area about this devastating situation. As you'd imagine, she's heartbroken over her brother's mysterious death.

“When he got home, we have no idea who picked him up or how he got all the way to Levi’s Stadium,” she said. “I don’t believe that my brother just decided to throw himself into a creek. I don’t have any answers when it comes down to really what happened to him.”

Stroud told the San Francisco Chronicle that her brother's missing person's case had a huge delay. The San Jose Police Department, however, refuted that claim.

"We understand how incredibly difficult and emotional this situation is for the family. When a loved one is missing, every moment feels critical, and we recognize the fear and frustration that can come with that uncertainty," the San Jose Police Department said. "At no point was this case dismissed or ignored."

Our thoughts are with those impacted by this tragedy.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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