COWLEY COUNTY —The search for a missing Kansas woman who was last seen on May 14 continues, according to Cowley County Sheriff Dave Faletti.
On May 20, Cowley County Sheriff’s Deputies were alerted to the discovery of a vehicle linked to a Silver Alert for 81-year-old Jerry McConnell issued in Overland Park, Kansas. The vehicle was located on private property in a remote area near the 4000 block of 327th Road.
Surveillance from a Flock safety camera showed the vehicle traveling west on US Highway 160 entering Cowley County on the evening of May 15 at approximately 5:20 p.m. Upon discovery of the vehicle, a multi-agency search effort was launched. Responding units included the Cowley County Sheriff’s Office, Blue Line Trackers, Cowley County CERT volunteers, Kansas Highway Patrol, and other local partners. The initial search was suspended at nightfall and resumed the following morning, May 21, with the aid of two different Kansas Search and Rescue, who brought in specialized canine teams.
Since that time, additional search efforts have been conducted each day this week. Despite extensive ground and air searches, along with search and rescue dive teams from Augusta Fire and Rescue, no new leads have been discovered regarding Mrs. McConnell’s whereabouts.
“We are extremely grateful for the tireless efforts of all those who participated in the search,” said Sheriff David Falletti. “The collaboration among law enforcement, volunteers, and community members has been outstanding.”
An Everbridge alert has been sent out to all residents and property owners in the area to check outbuildings, wells and wooded areas for any sign of our missing person.
At this time, the search for Mrs. McConnell remains ongoing.