By Allison Peck
SIDNEY, Neb. — Authorities have confirmed that the body of Kara L. Bancroft-Westman, who was reported missing and considered at-risk, was discovered Sunday morning in Sidney.
The Sidney Police Department said Bancroft-Westman, 51, was reported missing on Friday, January 24. At that time, police issued an urgent alert asking for the public’s help, noting she was last seen Thursday evening around 10:00 p.m. in the vicinity of Walmart. Authorities said she did not have her cell phone with her and had been without necessary medication for several days, prompting concerns for her safety.
Police described Bancroft-Westman as 5 feet 2 inches tall, weighing approximately 135 pounds, with grey hair and blue eyes. She was last seen wearing a long black trench coat that reached her ankles.
On Sunday, January 25, the Sidney Police Department and the Cheyenne County Sheriff’s Office announced that Bancroft-Westman’s body was discovered at approximately 11:00 a.m. Authorities did not release the location where she was found.
In a joint statement, the agencies said an investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death is ongoing and remains active. No additional details are being released at this time to protect the integrity of the investigation.
Officials expressed condolences to Bancroft-Westman’s family and loved ones and asked the public to respect their privacy during this time.
Anyone with information related to the case is asked to contact the Sidney Police Department at 308-254-5515 or the Cheyenne County Sheriff’s Office at 308-254-2922.