Spokane County, WA – The search for a missing 74-year-old woman in north Spokane County has taken a tragic turn after authorities said a deceased woman believed to be Lynn M. Chamberlain was found Saturday morning.
According to the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office, Search and Rescue volunteers and deputies located the woman while searching undeveloped land southwest of Bear Lake on Saturday, July 18, 2026. Officials said the deceased female is believed to be Chamberlain, who had been reported missing earlier this week.
As is standard protocol, Major Crimes detectives responded to the scene and are investigating what authorities described as a tragic unattended death. The Spokane County Medical Examiner’s Office will make the official identification and release the cause and manner of death once its investigation is complete.
Chamberlain was reported missing after leaving her home near East Saltz Lane and North Perry Road in north Spokane County at approximately 6:30 p.m. on Monday, July 13, 2026, for a walk. According to the sheriff’s office, she never returned.
Investigators previously said Chamberlain had been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, raising concerns that she may have become disoriented and unable to find her way home. Deputies, Search and Rescue volunteers, and drone teams searched the surrounding rural area throughout the week.
The sheriff’s office thanked the volunteers and community members who assisted with search efforts.
Authorities said no additional information is being released at this time while the investigation continues. The Medical Examiner’s Office will provide confirmation of the decedent’s identity when appropriate.
