Doug Lebda, the 55-year-old CEO of LendingTree, was found deceased on his North Carolina farm after he disappeared during an ATV ride, according to 911 records released by local authorities. Lebda, a father of three and a veteran tech executive, was discovered under his overturned ATV on his 277-acre property in Mill Spring on October 12, as reported by officials in Polk County.
A 911 call was made around 7:30 p.m. on the day of the incident, reporting that Lebda had left on his ATV about four hours earlier without his phone, but accompanied by his dog. The caller, who had been searching the expansive property with others, reported hearing distant barking, which led them to Lebda’s location.
Emergency crews and deputies arrived at the scene within minutes. Approximately 35 minutes after the call was made, at 8:06 p.m., they discovered Lebda’s body under the overturned vehicle. His faithful dog was found nearby, according to Polk County records.
The investigation revealed no signs of foul play, according to a county spokesperson. Lebda had purchased the sprawling riverfront property for $2.75 million in July, fulfilling a dream of owning a rural retreat. The entrepreneur, who founded LendingTree in 1996 after facing difficulties securing his first mortgage, often divided his time between Charlotte, N.C., and the farm.
LendingTree confirmed Lebda’s death, describing it as a “devastating loss.” The company praised him as a “visionary leader whose relentless drive, innovation, and passion transformed the financial services landscape, touching the lives of millions of consumers.” Scott Peyree, the President and COO, was immediately named as Lebda’s successor, with longtime board member Steve Ozonian appointed chairman.
Lebda’s widow, Megan, expressed her grief, describing her husband as compassionate and endlessly curious. A public memorial for Lebda was held on October 19 at Founders Hall in uptown Charlotte, where his daughters, Rachel and Abby, remembered him as “the most incredible man.”