Search called off for missing woman

CATALDO –– The official search for a missing Smelterville woman has been called off according to the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office. 

62-year-old Linda Kent reportedly went missing just before 9 p.m. on Sunday evening, while fishing with her family at the Cataldo Boat Launch along the Coeur d’Alene River.  

According to her daughter, Kent, who suffers from dementia, left the dock to use the restroom near the boat launch, but never returned. When they realized she was missing, the family reportedly searched the area for roughly 20 minutes before contacting law enforcement.  

According to KCSO Lt. Zach Sifford, the department called off the search on Monday evening, stating that they had “exhausted all of their available resources.” 

Sifford told the Press that boats, drones, infrared imaging, helicopters, and extensive manpower had been utilized to no avail – He also said K-9 units were dispatched but could not pick up a scent trail.  

Kent’s daughter said she and others believe she may have found her way to nearby Interstate 90 and been picked up.  

No signs of foul play have been reported.