On October 25, 2020, 75-year-old Candy Lee Sturgill was last seen in Litchfield, California. She and her friend, 83-year-old Shirlee Weaver, embarked on a trip, reportedly heading towards Wendel, California, a town roughly 10 miles away. The two women, who were known to enjoy exploring remote areas, were traveling in Sturgill's white 2002 Toyota RAV4 with California license plate number 6NWD443. Neither of them were known to carry cell phones.
A massive search was initiated days after the women failed to return home. The search came to a partial and grim conclusion on November 10, 2020, when a group of hunters discovered Sturgill's vehicle in a remote area on Mixie Flat Road, near the Nevada-California border. The Toyota RAV4 had a flat tire and the hood was raised, indicating a possible breakdown. Tragically, Shirlee Weaver was found deceased in the passenger seat of the vehicle. Authorities stated that her death did not appear to be suspicious.
Despite the discovery of the vehicle and Weaver, there was no sign of Candy Sturgill. Investigators found the word "HELP" spelled out on the ground near the vehicle, using items from inside the car. The location where the SUV was found is about a two-hour drive north of their supposed destination of Wendel. Extensive searches of the surrounding area were conducted by multiple agencies, but Sturgill has never been located.
At the time of her disappearance, Candy Sturgill was described as being 5'6" tall, weighing approximately 145 pounds, with blonde hair and brown eyes. Her case remains an active missing person investigation with the Lassen County Sheriff's Department, who can be contacted at 530-257-6121 with any information.
Last Seen: Oct 25, 2020
