Sandra S. Vanderhoef, 42, was reported missing on September 22, 1986, from Fort Dodge, Iowa. She was a Native American woman with known disabilities and was last seen at the Des Moines bus depot. Vanderhoef, who used the last names Nelson and Springer, had several distinguishing features, including scars on her abdomen and knees, a mole on her back, and she wore glasses.
Her case has been classified as endangered, suggesting that her physical safety was in serious danger at the time of her disappearance. Despite the efforts of law enforcement and her family, very few details have emerged about the circumstances surrounding her vanishing. All public records related to her case have since been lost by the investigating department, complicating efforts to revisit the case.
In the years since her disappearance, her case remains unsolved, leaving her family and Indigenous communities seeking answers. Like many cases involving missing Native American women, Sandra's case highlights broader challenges in investigating and resolving such disappearances. Local and tribal resources continue to advocate for justice and awareness for missing Indigenous women like Sandra.
Her case remains open, and anyone with information is urged to contact the Webster County Sheriff’s Office.Last Seen: Sep 22, 1986
