Authorities have confirmed the tragic discovery of an 86-year-old woman from Twentynine Palms, reported missing by her family, found deceased near a remote stretch of Highway 247 in San Bernardino County.
The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department identified the woman as Lorraine Bird, whose body was located on Monday, May 19, 2025, in the rugged terrain of Johnson Valley, near Bodick Road.
Lorraine Bird was last seen on May 13, 2025, prompting her family to report her missing when she failed to return home.
The Sheriff’s Department initiated a search, and deputies from the Morongo Basin station responded to a call reporting a body near a large group of boulders off the highway.
The discovery was made six days after Bird was reported missing, bringing a somber end to the search efforts.
The cause of Bird’s death remains under investigation, with autopsy results pending from the San Bernardino County Coroner’s Office.
Sheriff’s officials have not released details about potential foul play or the circumstances leading to her death, but the remote location has raised questions among local residents about how she ended up in such an isolated area.
Johnson Valley, known for its vast desert landscapes and sparse population, is a challenging environment for search and rescue operations.
The area’s rugged terrain and limited cell service often complicate efforts to locate missing persons, making the discovery of Bird’s body a significant development in the case.
Local authorities have praised the collaborative efforts of deputies and community members who assisted in the search.
Lorraine Bird was a longtime resident of Twentynine Palms, a close-knit desert community in San Bernardino County.
Neighbors described her as a kind and independent woman, and her disappearance sparked concern throughout the area.
Social media posts from local news outlets, including KTLA and VVNews, reflected the community’s shock and sadness upon learning of her passing.
The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department is urging anyone with information about Bird’s disappearance or the events leading to her death to come forward.
Residents can contact the Morongo Basin station at (760) 366-4175 or provide anonymous tips through the We-Tip hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME.
This tragedy follows a series of recent incidents in San Bernardino County, including the discovery of other missing persons in remote areas.
Authorities continue to investigate, and the community mourns the loss of a beloved member.
For ongoing updates on this case and other local news, stay tuned via our Breaking Local News segment on Franknez.com.
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