Body of Missing 73-Year-Old Found in Santa Cruz Mountains

Jeanne Burke was reported missing in November 2025 near Felton Quarry

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

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The Santa Cruz County Sheriff's Office has identified a body found in the Santa Cruz Mountains last month as that of Jeanne Burke, a 73-year-old woman who was reported missing in November 2025. Burke was last seen near the Felton Quarry, where she was walking toward Empire Grade Road. Rescue crews discovered her body in a 'densely wooded area' of the search zone on January 18.

Why it matters

The discovery of Burke's body brings closure to the months-long search for the missing woman, who was considered 'at risk' due to medical reasons. The case highlights the challenges faced by search and rescue teams in remote, rugged areas, and the importance of community support and coordination among agencies during missing persons investigations.

The details

According to the Santa Cruz County Sheriff's Office, more than 100 people from several agencies searched for Burke near Smith Grade Road, Moore Ranch Road, and other nearby areas after she was reported missing on November 18, 2025. Rescue crews eventually discovered her body in a 'densely wooded area' of the search zone on January 18. The sheriff's office did not provide details surrounding Burke's death.

  • Jeanne Burke was reported missing on November 18, 2025.
  • Rescue crews discovered her body on January 18, 2026.

The players

Jeanne Burke

A 73-year-old woman who was reported missing in November 2025 near the Felton Quarry in Santa Cruz County, California.

Santa Cruz County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency that led the search for Jeanne Burke and later identified her body.

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The takeaway

This case highlights the challenges faced by search and rescue teams in remote, rugged areas, and the importance of community support and coordination among agencies during missing persons investigations. The discovery of Jeanne Burke's body brings closure to the months-long search, but also raises questions about the circumstances surrounding her death.