The family of an 84-year-old Tucson woman continues to plead for public assistance as the search for her enters a critical phase. The woman was reported missing after failing to attend a Sunday church service on January 31.
In a recent public appeal, a family member expressed unwavering belief that their mother is still alive and urged anyone with information to come forward. “We believe she is still alive. Bring her home,” the statement read, providing contact information for both federal and local law enforcement agencies.
Authorities have released images from a home security camera showing an unidentified individual wearing a face mask and a backpack. The investigation has also focused on a vehicle seen at a local convenience store around the time of the disappearance.
Earlier this week, the situation grew more complex as a purported ransom demand surfaced. An unverified deadline passed on Monday with a demand for a cryptocurrency payment. The lack of further communication following that deadline has led investigators to question the credibility of the threat.
A security consultant familiar with such cases suggested the missed deadline indicates law enforcement is likely pivoting its strategy. “It tells investigators to close this particular path and dedicate resources to more viable leads,” the expert noted, adding that families in distress can sometimes be targeted by false claims from individuals with no real information.
In an emotional video message, the missing woman’s daughter described the ordeal as a “nightmare” and thanked the public for an outpouring of support. She emphasized that law enforcement is working continuously on the case.
“We believe our mom is still out there. We need your help,” she stated directly to the camera. “She was taken, and we don’t know where.” The appeal asked the public, regardless of location, to report anything unusual to authorities.
The investigation remains active as officials follow multiple leads in their efforts to locate the missing woman.