PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Authorities say they have likely found the remains of Judith Roberts, an 81-year-old West Linn woman who had been missing since May. The discovery was made Wednesday in a remote area of Curry County, bringing a somber end to a months-long search effort that spanned multiple counties.
Roberts was last seen on May 16, sitting in her white Volkswagen Jetta near the 19600 block of Wildwood Drive in West Linn. Family members and police had grown increasingly concerned after reports indicated she may have been experiencing cognitive issues at the time of her disappearance.
Vehicle Discovered by Hunter
According to the Curry County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO), a hunter came across Roberts’ vehicle on October 11 along a rugged, forested road outside Brookings, near Oregon’s southern coast. The vehicle was found locked and appeared to have been undisturbed for months. Inside, investigators located Roberts’ wallet and identification, confirming the car belonged to the missing woman.
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After the discovery, CCSO deputies and Search and Rescue (SAR) teams were immediately deployed to comb the surrounding area. The terrain, described as steep and heavily wooded, made the search difficult.
“Following the discovery of the vehicle, Search and Rescue members conducted a detailed search of the area,” CCSO said in a press release. “During that search, they discovered what is believed to be the remains of Judith Roberts.”
Investigation Underway
The remains have been turned over to the Oregon State Medical Examiner’s Office for formal identification and to determine the cause of death. While authorities have not confirmed foul play, the investigation remains open pending autopsy results.
Roberts’ disappearance sparked concern in the West Linn community earlier this year. Family members described her as kind and independent, but said she had recently shown signs of memory loss. Volunteers and local law enforcement agencies spent weeks canvassing neighborhoods, highways, and nearby parks without success.
Family and Community Reaction
The Roberts family released photos of Judith during the search, pleading for public help in locating her. On Thursday, relatives expressed heartbreak at the news but gratitude toward those who never stopped looking.
“This was not the ending we hoped for,” one family member said in a written statement shared with KOIN. “But we are thankful to the Curry County Sheriff’s Office and everyone who helped bring her home.”
Continuing Updates
The West Linn Police Department is assisting Curry County authorities and is expected to release further details as the investigation progresses.
As of now, officials are treating the discovery as a missing person case pending confirmation from the medical examiner.
“This is a developing story,” CCSO said, noting that updates will be provided once additional information becomes available.
