Body of Missing Christian County Woman Found in Hopkins Co.

Emerald 'Emmy' Raeann Forgette's remains discovered bound near a Nortonville property

Mar. 27, 2026 at 5:43am

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The body of a 39-year-old Hopkinsville woman who went missing in January has been found in Hopkins County, Kentucky. Emerald 'Emmy' Raeann Forgette was last seen alive on January 11 in the Nortonville area, about 72 miles southwest of Leitchfield. Kentucky State Police said Forgette's bound body was discovered on Wednesday near the back of a property in Nortonville, and an autopsy has determined that foul play is not suspected.

Why it matters

The discovery of Forgette's body brings a tragic end to the months-long search for the missing woman, raising questions about the circumstances surrounding her disappearance and death. While foul play is not suspected, the case highlights the challenges law enforcement faces in solving missing persons cases, especially in rural areas.

The details

According to Kentucky State Police, troopers were contacted on Wednesday by the Hopkins County Sheriff's Office regarding the discovery of a deceased female's body in the 400 block of South Hopkinsville Street in Nortonville. When troopers arrived, they identified the body as that of Emerald 'Emmy' Raeann Forgette, who had been reported missing since January 11. Forgette's body was found bound near the back of the caller's property.

  • Forgette was last seen alive during the early morning hours of Sunday, January 11, 2026.
  • Forgette's body was discovered on Wednesday, March 26, 2026.

The players

Emerald 'Emmy' Raeann Forgette

A 39-year-old woman from Hopkinsville, Kentucky who went missing in January 2026 and was later found deceased in Hopkins County.

Kentucky State Police

The law enforcement agency leading the investigation into Forgette's disappearance and death.

Hopkins County Sheriff's Office

The local law enforcement agency that contacted Kentucky State Police about the discovery of Forgette's body.

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What they’re saying

“This investigation is ongoing and is being led by KSP Det. Jacob Fortney.”

— Kentucky State Police

The takeaway

While the discovery of Forgette's body brings closure to her family and friends, it also raises concerns about the safety of women in rural areas and the challenges law enforcement faces in solving missing persons cases. This tragic incident underscores the need for continued vigilance and improved resources to support missing persons investigations, especially in remote communities.