CURRY COUNTY, Ore. — Authorities in Southern Oregon have confirmed that the vehicle belonging to Judith Roberts, an 81-year-old woman from West Linn who has been missing since May, was discovered unoccupied in Curry County this week.
According to the Curry County Sheriff’s Office, Roberts’ white Volkswagen Jetta was found in a remote area of the county, sparking a renewed search effort by local law enforcement and volunteer rescue teams. Officials have not disclosed the exact location or condition of the vehicle but confirmed that Roberts was not at the scene.
Search and Investigation Underway
Following the vehicle’s discovery, search and rescue teams began combing the surrounding area, using tracking dogs, drones, and ground units to look for any sign of Roberts. Authorities say the terrain in parts of Curry County can be rugged and heavily forested, complicating search efforts.
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Investigators are working to determine how long the car had been there and whether foul play or a medical emergency may have played a role in her disappearance. As of Sunday, no additional clues have been made public.
The Oregon State Police, Curry County Sheriff’s Office, and West Linn Police Department are collaborating on the case, which now spans multiple jurisdictions.
Last Known Sighting and Background
Family members last saw Roberts in May, when she was reportedly driving her Jetta. Loved ones described her as independent and active, but said it was unusual for her to go so long without contacting anyone.
In the months since her disappearance, relatives have organized searches and circulated flyers throughout Oregon, hoping for leads. “We just want her home,” a family member said in a previous interview. “We’re holding on to hope that someone knows something.”
Authorities have not indicated whether Roberts may have been traveling intentionally toward the coast or if she became disoriented while driving.
Community Support and Caution
The case has drawn widespread concern from the West Linn community and missing persons advocacy groups. Online posts urging information about Roberts’ whereabouts have been shared thousands of times.
Community leaders are reminding the public to avoid speculation and to allow investigators to continue their work. “Our focus should be on supporting the family and helping authorities find answers,” said a spokesperson for an Oregon missing persons organization.
Anyone who may have seen a white Volkswagen Jetta or has information about Judith Roberts’ movements in Curry County or along the Oregon coast is urged to contact the Curry County Sheriff’s Office or Oregon State Police immediately.
The investigation remains ongoing as search teams continue efforts to locate the missing West Linn woman and bring closure to her family.
