(Cleveland)- Mattie Mizell, a 69-year-old Cleveland woman who was reported missing on News Year’s day was found deceased on Thursday.
Cleveland Police Chief Jeff Shoemaker in a news release said Mizell’s body was found along the edge of a creek in a densely wooded area. The area is located off NOK Drive in Cleveland. He said foul play is not suspected; the woman’s body has been turned over to White County Coroner’s Office.
Police had asked the public to help find Mizell after she left a residence on White Street, on foot and did not return home. Search efforts included the use of tracking dogs, air units, drones, and foot searches by multiple city, county, and state agencies. Surveillance video was obtained from multiple locations in an effort to narrow the search area.
“The police department would like to thank members of the community who assisted in the search,” said Shoemaker. “We are all saddened by the outcome; our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Mrs. Mizell.”
White County Coroner Ricky Barrett said, “We don’t know how long she was dead, cause of death or anything like that.” He says he will be conferring with the State Medical Examiner’s office on Friday.
The family has asked for the public to respect their privacy and will make no statements regarding the matter.
Cleveland Mayor Josh Turner issued a statement saying, “On behalf of the City of Cleveland and our partners, I would like to extend sincere and heartfelt condolences to the Mizell family. This is an incredibly difficult time for Mrs. Mizell’s family and the community.”
Our prayers are with Mattie and her family
God holds her in HIS loving arms