A woman missing for more than 60 years has been found alive and well by cold case detectives in the United States.

Audrey Backeberg went missing at the age of 20 from her residence in Reedsburg, Wisconsin, on July 7, 1962. Despite extensive search efforts over the years, her whereabouts remained a mystery.

This year, Detective Isaac Hanson from the Sauk County Sheriff’s Office was tasked with a detailed investigation as part of an active review of unresolved cases.

Following a re-evaluation of case files and a re-interviewing of witnesses, Hanson managed to uncover new leads.

Backeberg, now 82, has since been found living in another state.

“We are pleased to announce that Audrey Backeberg has been found alive, living in another state,” stated County Sheriff Chip Meister.

“Further investigation has revealed that Ms Backeberg’s disappearance was by her own choice and not the result of any criminal activity or foul play.”

According to the Wisconsin Missing Persons Advocacy, Backeberg had been married at age 15 and had two children by the time she was 20.

It’s believed she had taken a bus to Indiana before disappearing. 

Hanson told local news station WISN that Backeberg’s sister’s online ancestry account helped track her down.

“I think she just was removed and, you know, moved on from things and kind of did her own thing and led her life,” he told WISN.

“She sounded happy. Confident in her decision. No regrets.”

Meister said it was important to continue to work through cold case files to provide answers to both the family and the community.