RICHMOND COUNTY, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — Human remains found last week have been identified as a 77-year-old Rockingham woman who had been missing since October 2024.
Richmond County deputies found the remains in the Meadow Wood Community of Richmond County. According to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, the remains belonged to Linda McCuiston.
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“Unfortunately, this is not the outcome we had hoped for,” Sheriff Mark Gulledge said.
Mrs. McCuiston’s family reported her missing on October 11.
Richmond County deputies and local first responders conducted search efforts in the area after being notified, both on the ground and in the air.
A second Missing Endangered Alert was issued for McCuiston, who was believed to be suffering from a cognitive impairment, according to the N.C. Center for Missing Persons.
“Criminal investigators have devoted countless hours and resources to the investigation and will persist in seeking answers regarding her disappearance,” said Sheriff Gulledge.
Officials have not said if they suspect foul play or what caused McCuiston’s death.
