Authorities in Arizona continue to search for a Grand Canyon missing family last seen traveling from the Grand Canyon to Las Vegas, but no trace has yet been found. The Coconino County Sheriff’s Office, which is leading the investigation, confirmed that ground and aerial search efforts have not located the family.
Detour Considered in Grand Canyon Case
The family’s rental car GPS data shows their last known location near an area where Interstate 40 connects to Route 66, suggesting they may have taken a detour. Investigators believe the family could have deviated from their original route due to weather or road conditions. The region includes mountainous terrain and sparse forest at elevations around 5,000 feet.
Helicopters and K9 Units Search for Missing Family
Search teams used helicopters and police dogs in the effort to find the Grand Canyon missing family. Sheriff’s Office spokesperson John Paxton said, “We’ve already canvassed and searched all accessible areas. Ground operations are currently paused until new leads surface.”
The office is actively monitoring GPS signals from the family’s vehicle and mobile phones in real time. Paxton added that helicopters remain on standby for redeployment and that missing persons flyers have been distributed throughout the region.
Public Safety Officials Join in Ongoing Investigation
The Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) is assisting with the investigation. DPS spokesperson Bart Graves noted that the final GPS signal came from a rugged, elevated area, which has made the search more difficult.
Locals familiar with the roads have expressed concern. Jang Dong-Kyu, a tour guide from Samho Tours, explained that while Route 66 is a possible detour when I-40 has issues, it is known for poor road conditions. He mentioned his tour bus also traveled I-40 on March 13, the same day the family disappeared. Due to heavy snow, a 22-vehicle pile-up occurred near Williams, forcing them to detour as well.
Sheriff’s Office Corrects Ages of Grand Canyon Missing Family
Officials later corrected the ages of the missing family members, citing a data entry error. The accurate ages are: Kim Tae-Hee, 59; Kim Jung-Hee, 54; and Lee Ji-Yeon, 33.
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BY KYEONGJUN KIM [kim.kyeongjun1@koreadaily.com]
AND HANKIL KANG [kang.hankil@koreadaily.com]
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