Hailey Police Department announced Sunday afternoon that Susan Wilhelm, a 78‑year‑old resident with dementia, was last seen walking near the Toe of the Hill Trail at approximately 3 p.m. Wilhelm, who is 5 feet 8 inches tall, weighs about 160 pounds, has grey hair and multicolored eyes, was wearing glasses, a denim jacket, jeans and a white‑and‑black striped sweater when she disappeared.
Search effort expands
By Monday morning, the Blaine County Sheriff’s Office and its Search and Rescue team had established a command post and deployed additional resources to locate Wilhelm. Officials warned that, because of her dementia, Wilhelm can become easily confused and may have walked a considerable distance since she was last seen.
Authorities are asking anyone in the surrounding area—from Carey through Ketchum—to inspect their homes, garages, sheds, barns and any outbuildings for signs of Wilhelm. “She may have sought shelter in a structure or simply become disoriented in the woods,” said a spokesperson for the sheriff’s office.
How to help
Anyone who has seen Wilhelm or believes they have found her is urged to call the Hailey Police Department at 208‑788‑3531 immediately. The department emphasized the urgency of the situation, noting that Wilhelm is considered endangered due to her age and medical condition.
Community members have already begun organizing informal search parties, checking trailheads, and posting notices on local social‑media groups. The Hailey Police Department thanked volunteers for their swift response and reminded residents that timely information can make the difference between a safe return and a tragic outcome.
Background on local safety initiatives
Hailey and the broader Blaine County region have a strong tradition of community‑driven public‑safety efforts. The county’s Search and Rescue team, composed largely of volunteers, regularly assists in missing‑person cases, especially those involving seniors or individuals with cognitive impairments. This collaborative approach reflects the community’s commitment to looking after its most vulnerable members.
Officials also encouraged families of individuals with dementia to consider safety measures such as ID bracelets, GPS trackers, and regular check‑ins with neighbors. While these tools cannot replace vigilant community involvement, they can provide an additional layer of protection.
What’s next?
The command post will remain active throughout the week, with updates provided as new information becomes available. Residents are asked to stay alert, keep an eye out for Wilhelm, and report any sightings promptly.
Hailey Police Department and the Blaine County Sheriff’s Office reaffirm their dedication to bringing Wilhelm home safely and thank the public for their continued support.
Original reporting: KIVI Idaho News 6 Boise metro (local) — read the source article.
