A loyal labradoodle’s barking led first responders to the tragic scene where LendingTree CEO Doug Lebda was found dead beneath his overturned ATV, highlighting both the devotion of man’s best friend and the sudden loss of a pioneering entrepreneur who embodied American business success.
Story Highlights
- LendingTree CEO Doug Lebda found dead under overturned ATV on his North Carolina farm.
- His faithful labradoodle’s barking guided search teams to his location after a four-hour disappearance.
- Self-made entrepreneur built LendingTree empire after struggling with his own first mortgage.
- Recently purchased $2.75 million rural retreat, fulfilling longtime dream of farm ownership.
Faithful Companion Leads Rescue Effort
Doug Lebda’s labradoodle became an unlikely hero on October 12, 2025, when the dog’s persistent barking led search teams to the LendingTree CEO’s body on his 277-acre Mill Spring property. Emergency responders received the 911 call around 7:30 p.m. after Lebda had been missing for approximately four hours following an ATV ride.
The caller reported hearing the dog barking from across a dam, telling dispatchers, “I heard that dog! He barked one time. He’s on that hill.” Within 35 minutes, deputies found Lebda pinned beneath his overturned vehicle, with his loyal companion standing guard nearby.
Barking from dead LendingTree CEO’s own dog led first responders to body https://t.co/SZKLkb1AaC pic.twitter.com/hPCuRDwU8f
— NY Post Business (@nypostbiz) October 29, 2025
American Dream Realized Through Entrepreneurship
Lebda’s story exemplified the American entrepreneurial spirit that conservatives champion – building success through determination and hard work. After struggling to secure his first mortgage, he founded LendingTree in 1996, transforming his personal frustration into a revolutionary financial services platform.
The company described him as a “visionary leader whose relentless drive, innovation, and passion transformed the financial services landscape, touching the lives of millions of consumers.”
His recent $2.75 million purchase of the riverfront property fulfilled a longtime dream of owning rural land, allowing him to split time between Charlotte and his farm retreat.
No Foul Play in Tragic Accident
Polk County investigators determined no signs of foul play existed in Lebda’s death, ruling the incident an ATV accident. The 55-year-old father of three had ventured out on his vehicle without his phone but brought his dog, a decision that ultimately enabled search teams to locate his body.
Emergency crews arrived at the scene within minutes of the 911 call, but Lebda had already succumbed to his injuries. The tragic accident occurred on property he had owned for just three months, highlighting how quickly life can change even when pursuing one’s dreams.
Legacy Continues Through Family and Leadership
LendingTree immediately named President and COO Scott Peyree as Lebda’s successor, with longtime board member Steve Ozonian appointed chairman, ensuring business continuity during the transition.
Lebda’s widow, Megan, described her husband as compassionate and endlessly curious, stating, “His energy was magnetic, his smile contagious, and his presence was a source of comfort and inspiration.”
At his October 19 memorial service in uptown Charlotte, daughters Rachel and Abby honored their father as “the most incredible man,” promising, “Don’t worry, Dad. We have each other now.” The family’s strength during this tragedy reflects the traditional values that built America’s foundation.
