Woman found dead after fraud investigation

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Story Published: Jul 23, 2009 at 3:40 PM MDT

Story Updated: Jul 23, 2009 at 6:35 PM MDT

By Jennifer McGraw

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AMMON - The woman responsible for creating an online fraud involving the Livestrong foundation has been found dead in her car.

Meet 15-year-old Jonathan Jay White. A young boy from Ammon, Idaho fighting for his life against brain cancer. The boy blogs of his optimism and strength, having swooned the hearts of many across the world including donations of generous funds.

The world now knows him as 24-year-old Melissa Rice. The woman behind the cancer, the blogs, and all the lies.

Recently Lance Armstrong, the boy's major contributor with the Livestrong Foundation, received disturbing news. Rice confessed there was no little boy and there was definitely no cancer patient.

Bonneville County Sheriff's office served a search warrant to Rice's house Tuesday. They didn't find her, but found tons of donations and celebrity memorabilia.

A day later, police found Rice dead in her car five miles south of Henry's Canyon.

"It's a tragic situation all around for victims family and any body who donated stuff. Its just a terrible situation," Sgt. Doug Metcalf, Bonneville County Sheriff's Office.

At this point there's no telling why Rice made up the boy and we may never know.

Due to her death, the prosecutor's office has dropped all charges. Police are asking for your help for any clues in this ongoing investigation.

if you have information please call the bonneville detectives office at 529-1375.

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