1srelluc
Diamond Member
North Carolina woman who was reported missing more than two decades ago was found alive, bringing a 24-year investigation to a close, authorities said.
The Rockingham County Sheriff’s Office said Michelle Hundely Smith, who disappeared in December 2001, was located on Feb. 20 in North Carolina after detectives received new information about her case.
Smith was 38 years old when her husband reported that she had left their Eden home on Dec. 9, 2001, to go Christmas shopping in Martinsville, Virginia, and never returned. Her vehicle was also never located.
An extensive investigation followed, involving multiple agencies across North Carolina and Virginia, including the State Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Despite years of investigative work, her whereabouts remained unknown until last week, when Sgt. A. Disher and Detective C. Worley made contact with Smith at an "undisclosed location within North Carolina alive and well," after receiving a tip.
At her request, officials said her current location will not be disclosed. Her family has been notified that she has been located and informed of her wishes.
The motive for her disappearance remains unknown.
"The Rockingham County Sheriff’s Office extends its sincere gratitude to the many agencies and investigators who dedicated substantial time, resources, and unwavering determination to this case over the years,".
No divorce, she was declared dead, missing vehicle, assumed identity, making money, and just who told on her? Likely someone else tired of her "stuff".
She should have to at least pay restitution for the search costs.
Not sure if her ex could now file for divorce and back child support (for three kids) since she was declared dead.
