Missing Female found deceased

Kootenai County---

On March 17, 2022 the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office Volunteer Search and Rescue Unit responded to the area of 4th of July Pass to assist in looking for Janelle M. Burchfield, who went missing on March 14, 2022. Burchfield was last seen in the area of 4th of July Pass after she exited a passenger vehicle.

Deputies initially responded to the same area on March 14th to search for Burchfield, but were unable to locate her. Deputies and Detectives continued to investigate the disappearance and followed-up on investigative leads provided by the public.

Members from the Kootenai County Volunteer Search and Rescue Unit responded to 4th of July Pass and focused their search efforts on the south side of Interstate 90. During the search, Burchfield was located deceased in heavy brush down a steep embankment. Based on the initial investigation by Detectives, the death does not appear to be suspicious.

Sheriff Robert B. Norris

By: Lt. Ryan Higgins