Jeffrey Meldrum, Scholar Who Stalked Bigfoot, Dies at 67

Jeffrey Meldrum, a renowned scholar who dedicated his career to studying the elusive creature known as Bigfoot, or Sasquatch, has passed away at the age of 67. Meldrum's tireless efforts to bring scientific credibility to the field of Sasquatch studies earned him both admiration from enthusiasts and scathing criticism from skeptics.Throughout his academic career, Meldrum was fascinated by the legend of the Sasquatch, a mysterious, apelike creature said to roam the forests of North America. While many researchers in the field were content to rely on anecdotal evidence and hearsay, Meldrum sought to apply rigorous scientific standards to his investigations. He poured over footprints, hair samples, and eyewitness accounts, searching for any shred of evidence that might prove the existence of the creature.Meldrum's approach won him a devoted following among Bigfoot enthusiasts, who appreciated his willingness to take their claims seriously and examine them through a scientific lens. His 2009 book, "Sasquatch: The Apes Among Us," became a seminal work in the field, offering a comprehensive and systematic approach to the study of Sasquatch.However, Meldrum's efforts to legitimize Sasquatch studies also drew criticism from skeptics and debunkers, who viewed his work as a waste of time and resources. They argued that the lack of concrete evidence and the reliance on anecdotal testimony made it impossible to take the study of Sasquatch seriously.Despite the skepticism, Meldrum remained undeterred, continuing to teach and lecture on the subject of Sasquatch and cryptozoology at his home institution, Idaho State University. His persistence and dedication helped to establish Sasquatch studies as a legitimate area of inquiry, even if it remains a fringe field.Meldrum's passing leaves a void in the world of Sasquatch research, but his legacy will live on through his work and the countless researchers and enthusiasts he inspired. As the search for evidence of the elusive creature continues, Meldrum's contributions will remain a crucial part of the ongoing conversation.