Wisconsin State Patrol, Washburn Sheriff’s Office, Spooner Fire Department and DNR team up to find missing woman with dementia

September 18, 2009

The Washburn County Sheriff’s Office requested assistance from other area law enforcement agencies on Wednesday afternoon, Sept. 16, to assist in a search for an elderly woman with dementia who had wandered away from her family and into a wooded area near Springbrook.

Four State Patrol officers responded to help search the area and nearby properties. The Washburn County Sheriff’s Office and its K-9 team responded along with a DNR personnel in an airplane and on all-terrain vehicles.

The Spooner Fire Department was about to conduct a search of a cornfield in the area when State Trooper Dennis Lewis of the Northwest Region—Spooner Post spotted the woman in a farm pasture.  Trooper Lewis reported that the woman was conscious but appeared confused. She had no apparent injuries other than cramps in her legs and ankles. She was transported to a Spooner medical facility.

“All the agencies involved in the search teamed up and worked well together in conducting a successful search,” said Lt. Jeff Lorentz of the State Patrol Northwest Region. “We certainly are glad that the woman was found without any injuries.”

For more information, contact:
Lt. Jeff Lorentz, State Patrol NW Region Headquarters-Eau Claire
715-839-3800, jeffrey.lorentz@dot.wi.gov