LUBBOCK, TEXAS — Authorities have confirmed that an elderly Texas couple who went missing over Thanksgiving has been found dead in a rural area of New Mexico, ending a multi-state search that began when family members lost contact during their return trip home.
According to officials, Charles “Gary” Lightfoot, 82, and his wife Linda, 81, were discovered near their vehicle in an isolated pasture. Investigators believe the couple died of hypothermia after becoming stranded.
The pair was last seen while traveling from the Texas Panhandle to their home in Lubbock following a holiday visit with friends.
Silver Alert and Search Effort
A Silver Alert was issued soon after the couple was reported missing. Authorities said concern grew quickly because the Lightfoots did not have a cellphone, and Gary was dependent on oxygen, making the situation especially dire…