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Investigation continues after body found in Cd'A National Forest

KAYE THORNBRUGH | Hagadone News Network | UPDATED 1 month AGO
by KAYE THORNBRUGH
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. | August 2, 2026 1:00 AM

Authorities continue to investigate the case of a woman who was found dead in a remote area within the Coeur d’Alene National Forest in early June, according to the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office.

Undersheriff Brett Nelson confirmed Friday that the investigation remains active and no new information can be shared with the public at this time. 

After the sheriff’s office received a report the night of June 7 that bear hunters had come across a deceased woman in a wooded area, backcountry deputies and detectives responded to the Marie Creek area. Authorities removed numerous trees so that vehicles could access the site. 

The woman’s body appeared to have been at the site for an extended period, according to KCSO. 

“At this time, no foul play is suspected,” said a June 8 news release published by the sheriff’s office. 

Investigators found a passport nearby indicating that the deceased woman might be a 69-year-old from New York. But they withheld her identity pending positive identification by the Kootenai County Coroner’s Office and notification of next of kin. 

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