An 85-year-old Minnesota woman who had been missing for several weeks was found dead in Wisconsin, not far from her vehicle, authorities announced.
The Superior Police Department said in a news release that officers were called to N. 54th Street and Logan Avenue around 12:50 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 22, after receiving a report about a vehicle located in a wooded area near the intersection.
The car, discovered roughly 200 yards down an ATV trail, was identified as belonging to Juanita Rosa, 85, of Hinckley, Minnesota. Rosa had last been seen on Aug. 4, according to a missing persons bulletin from the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension.
When officers did not find Rosa near her vehicle, the department called in the St. Louis County Rescue Squad to assist with the search in the nearby Superior Municipal Forest.
A K-9 team later located Rosa’s body about a quarter mile from the vehicle, police said. Authorities confirmed that no foul play is suspected in her death.
Family members told Fox affiliate KMSP that Rosa had breakfast with her two sons the morning she disappeared, then went home for a nap before vanishing. Loved ones described her as a warm grandmother with a playful sense of humor.
“The Superior Police Department extends our heartfelt sympathy to Juanita’s family and friends during this difficult time,” officials said in a statement, adding thanks to the St. Louis County Rescue Squad and the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office for their assistance.
The family later shared a statement published by Northern News Now, expressing gratitude for the support and prayers they’ve received.
“We extend our deepest gratitude to all who have supported us during this profoundly difficult time,” the family said. “The countless individuals who shared information, the tireless efforts of law enforcement, most notably the Pine County Sheriff’s Office, have provided strength and comfort beyond what words can convey.”
They also shared a message for others: “If there is one message we hope everyone takes from this, it is to never miss a chance to tell your loved ones how much they mean to you. Life is fragile, and those words can never be said too often.”
