Missing for Over 60 Years: Wisconsin Woman Found Alive and Thriving!

A Wisconsin woman missing for over 60 years has been found alive and well. The Sauk County Sheriff’s Office announced that 82-year-old Audrey Backeberg, who disappeared at 20, was located living out of state.

In a press release, authorities clarified that her disappearance was voluntary. Backeberg’s journey began on July 7, 1962, when she left home to collect her paycheck from a woolen mill. Her babysitter reported that they hitchhiked to Madison, Wisconsin, and then took a Greyhound bus to Indianapolis. The babysitter was the last to see her, watching Backeberg walk away from the bus stop.

Backeberg had faced serious issues at home. Reports indicate she was married to Ronald Backeberg at around 15 years old. Their marriage was troubled, with allegations of abuse. On the day she vanished, she had filed a complaint against her husband for threats and violence.

Over the years, Backeberg’s case became a cold case, but recently, it was reviewed by a dedicated detective. This renewed investigation included a thorough examination of old files and witness interviews. Detective Isaac Hanson utilized her sister’s Ancestry.com account, which helped uncover critical information about Backeberg’s whereabouts.

"That was key in locating death records and census reports,” Hanson explained. After finding an address, Hanson contacted local authorities, who confirmed Backeberg was alive. When they spoke, she appeared happy and content with her life choices, having made the decision to move on.

This case sheds light on the complexities behind missing persons. Historical data shows that many who disappear seek a fresh start. According to the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System, about 600,000 people go missing in the U.S. yearly, but a significant number return after having chosen to leave their previous lives. This highlights the need for sensitivity when addressing disappearances, as some individuals might be escaping difficult situations.

Backeberg’s story is a reminder that sometimes, silence has its reasons. People may vanish not only due to foul play but also in search of peace and independence.

Learn more about missing persons cases from the National Missing Persons database.

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