Nationwide — Ernestine Merritt, a 79-year-old African American lady from DeKalb County, Georgia, has been discovered lifeless within the woods days after going lacking. She had dementia, and authorities mentioned there have been no indicators of foul play.
Merritt, a retired highschool English instructor, was final seen leaving her house on the 2400 block of Yolanda Path in Ellenwood early Sunday morning. In response to Folks, a doorbell digicam reportedly captured her strolling out, and he or she by no means returned. Her household feared she is likely to be confused or misplaced.
After her disappearance, the DeKalb County Police Division issued a Mattie’s Name, an emergency alert for lacking aged or disabled people. Pals, household, and members of Greenforest Group Baptist Church joined the search, combing the neighborhood in hopes of discovering her safely.
Her cousin, James Robinson, mentioned, “She thought she was going to church. I like her, and I need her again actual unhealthy.” Regardless of days of looking, Merritt’s location remained unknown till Wednesday night.
Police later confirmed that Merritt’s physique had been discovered within the woods behind the 3900 block of Outdated Ivy Courtroom. “It’s with unhappiness to announce this search has led to tragedy,” the division mentioned. The church shared the information on Fb, expressing grief whereas asking the group to maintain her household in prayer.
Authorities mentioned a preliminary investigation confirmed no indicators of foul play. Group members and the church thanked everybody who assisted within the search, remembering Merritt for her religion, educating profession, and influence on these round her.
