A faithful labradoodle’s desperate barking led first responders to the tragic discovery of LendingTree CEO Doug Lebda’s body, pinned beneath his overturned ATV on his North Carolina farm after a four-hour search.
Story Highlights
- LendingTree CEO Doug Lebda, 55, died in an ATV accident on his 277-acre North Carolina farm.
- His loyal labradoodle’s barking guided searchers to his body after a four-hour disappearance.
- Lebda had just purchased the $2.75 million property in July, fulfilling a longtime dream.
- The company immediately appointed Scott Peyree as the new CEO to continue Lebda’s vision.
Tragic Discovery on Rural Property
Doug Lebda’s entrepreneurial journey ended tragically on October 12, 2025, when the 55-year-old LendingTree CEO was found dead beneath his overturned ATV on his Mill Spring farm.
The father of three had ventured out on his vehicle around 3:30 p.m. without his phone, accompanied only by his faithful labradoodle companion. When Lebda failed to return after four hours, concerned associates launched a search across his vast 277-acre property.
The breakthrough came when searchers heard the distinctive barking of Lebda’s dog echoing across the property’s dam area. The 911 caller reported hearing the animal’s desperate calls, telling dispatchers, “I heard that dog! He barked one time. He’s on that hill… There it was again.”
Emergency crews arrived at the scene within minutes, discovering Lebda’s body pinned under the ATV at 8:06 p.m., 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 Fulfilled Through Hard Work
Lebda’s story embodied the quintessential American success narrative, resonating with conservative values of hard work and determination.
The entrepreneur launched LendingTree in 1996 after experiencing firsthand the frustrations of securing his first mortgage, turning personal struggle into a business empire that served millions of consumers.
His company transformed the financial services landscape through innovation and competitive marketplace principles rather than government intervention.
The recently purchased North Carolina property fulfilled Lebda’s longtime dream of owning a rural retreat. Friends described how the $2.75 million riverfront farm symbolized his appreciation for land ownership and rural American values.
Lebda frequently split his time between Charlotte and the farm, demonstrating the work-life balance that successful entrepreneurs often seek after building their enterprises through dedication and vision.
Leadership Transition and Legacy
LendingTree moved swiftly to ensure business continuity, immediately appointing President and COO Scott Peyree as Lebda’s successor, with longtime board member Steve Ozonian assuming the role of chairman.
This rapid transition reflects sound corporate governance principles that protect shareholders and employees during unexpected leadership changes. The company characterized Lebda as a “visionary leader whose relentless drive, innovation, and passion transformed the financial services landscape.”
Polk County investigators determined no foul play occurred in Lebda’s death, concluding the incident was an unfortunate accident. His widow, Megan, described him as compassionate and endlessly curious, while his daughters, Rachel and Abby, honored their father at an October 19 memorial service in Charlotte.
The family’s statements emphasized Lebda’s magnetic energy and inspirational presence, qualities that drove his entrepreneurial success and community impact throughout his career.
