Missing woman found dead
KAYE THORNBRUGH | Hagadone News Network | UPDATED 4 years, 6 months AGO
Burchfield
Kaye Thornbrugh is a second-generation Kootenai County resident who has been with the Coeur d’Alene Press for six years. She primarily covers Kootenai County’s government, as well as law enforcement, the legal system and North Idaho College. | March 19, 2022 1:00 AM
Search and rescue volunteers reportedly found the body of a missing woman late Thursday.
Janelle M. Burchfield was last seen alive Monday morning at the top of Fourth of July Pass, on foot near the recreation parking area.
Her cellphone was powered off shortly after she disappeared.
The Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office said Thursday that Burchfield was not alone when she disappeared.
Her boyfriend and family reportedly searched for her prior to contacting law enforcement.
Amid the search for Burchfield, law enforcement reportedly followed investigative leads provided by the public. Foul play was not suspected.
Members of the Kootenai County Volunteer Search and Rescue Unit focused search efforts on the south side of Interstate 90, according to KCSO.
Burchfield was found dead Thursday, in heavy brush, down a steep embankment.
Based on an initial investigation, KCSO said her death does not appear suspicious.
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