A body found last month in a wooded area in northwestern California has been identified as belonging to a 73-year-old woman who disappeared in November.
Jeanne Burke was last seen near the Felton Quarry in Santa Cruz County, walking toward Empire Grade Road at around 3 p.m. on Nov. 18, the Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office said.
She was described as 5 feet tall with a medium build, long gray hair and blue eyes. At the time she vanished, Burke was wearing a red and black plaid jacket, black pants, and mismatched sandals — one pink and one black.
“Due to medical reasons, we are concerned for Jeanne’s safety,” authorities said at the time.
On Jan. 18, the sheriff’s office reported that a body was found in a densely wooded area while search efforts continued near Smith Grade and Moore Ranch Road.
On Feb. 14, the sheriff’s office confirmed the recovered body was Burke’s.
“The Sheriff’s Office extends its deepest condolences to Ms. Burke’s family and friends during this tragic time,” the department said. Officials also thanked the agencies and search-and-rescue teams involved, as well as the community for its support during the search.
Authorities did not release details about the circumstances of Burke’s death. The Santa Cruz County Coroner did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
