On Thursday, May 7th, the Cascade County Sheriff’s Office reported that 77-year-old Catherine Rearden was missing. Initial reports indicated she was last seen between midnight and 4:00 a.m. on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, near 1021 Millegan Road, approximately 10 miles south of Ulm. This means she may have been missing for up to 17 hours.
The Cascade County Sheriff’s Office was notified at approximately 2:34 p.m. Wednesday, at which time deputies and Cascade County Search and Rescue immediately began coordinated search efforts.
These efforts included searching outbuildings and structures in the immediate area, as well as expanded ground and aerial searches. Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks contributed with a thermal drone search, and at 6:30 p.m., two helicopters from Malmstrom Air Force Base joined the operation, aiding in aerial searches of the surrounding terrain, river areas, coulees, and nearby properties.
After more than 42 hours of coordinated searching near Ulm, Catherine Rearden was found alive on Thursday evening. She was located by a neighbor at approximately 6:30 p.m. on May 7, 2026, near Eden School, roughly five miles from her residence. Fortunately, she was found without any life-threatening injuries and was medically evaluated.
“This is a remarkable outcome,” said Cascade County Sheriff Jesse Slaughter. “It is uncommon to locate someone after this length of time and find them alive without life-threatening injuries. We are incredibly grateful Catherine was found safely and has now been reunited with her family.”
More than 30 individuals participated in the extensive search efforts. Responding agencies included the Cascade County Sheriff’s Office, Cascade County Search and Rescue, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, Malmstrom Air Force Base, Chouteau County Sheriff’s Office, Chouteau County Search and Rescue, Lewis & Clark County Search and Rescue, and the Department of Homeland Security.
The search operations involved coordinated ground searches, as well as searches of structures and outbuildings, thermal drone operations, and aerial searches using helicopters from Malmstrom Air Force Base and the Department of Homeland Security.
Due to Catherine’s presumed dementia and cognitive issues, crews faced significant challenges, as individuals living with dementia may travel long distances, become disoriented, hide from rescuers, or navigate through difficult terrain.
“This search involved an overwhelming level of coordination and support. We want to thank every deputy, volunteer, partner agency, and community member who assisted, shared information, and helped search properties and terrain,” stated Sheriff Jesse Slaughter.
“This search involved an overwhelming level of coordination and support,” said Sheriff Jesse Slaughter. “We want to thank every deputy, volunteer, partner agency, and community member who assisted, shared information, and helped search properties and terrain. The Salvation Army Sally One Unit also responded, providing food and support to search crews.”
By Karen Anderson: May 7, 2026 – Great Falls, Mt
Author: Karen Anderson
Karen is the Editor-in-Chief overseeing all news operations at Foxys Publishing Co. She also loves photography and spending time with her dogs.
