Texas Couple Found Dead After Search A Thanksgiving trip ended in tragedy for an elderly couple from Lubbock.
A Sudden Disappearance
Charles Gary Lightfoot, 82, and Linda Eppers Lightfoot, 81, visited friends on November 27. They left Panhandle, Texas, the next day at 3 p.m.
However, the couple never arrived at their home in Lubbock. Family members contacted police when they could not find the pair.
The Desperate Search
Authorities issued a Silver Alert on November 30. Gary was oxygen dependent. This situation created a threat to their safety.
New Mexico State Police used helicopters to search the remote terrain. Meanwhile, the Quay County Sheriff launched drones to canvass the area.
A Devastating Discovery
On December 2, license plate readers located their Toyota Camry in New Mexico. Officers found the car high centered in a tree line.
Charles and Linda were found dead in a nearby pasture. Sheriff Dennis Garcia found the car battery was dead.
Investigation and Legacy
Chief Sace Hardman said there was no evidence of criminal activity. Authorities believe hypothermia may be the cause of death.
Gary was a veteran and served as Police Chief of Littlefield. He earned the Captain of the Year award in 1985.
Finally, the couple had recently celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary. Their remains will go to Albuquerque for full autopsies.