DeKalb County officials reported the conclusion of a search for a missing elder that ended with the discovery of her body. FOX 5 Atlanta reported that 79-year-old Ernestine Merritt was found yesterday in a creekbed approximately a quarter-mile from her home, closing the statewide Mattie’s Call issued for her safety. Merritt, who had dementia, had been missing since Sunday. The Georgia Emergency Search and Rescue, which led the search efforts, had responded quickly due to her vulnerable condition.
The search for Merritt involved numerous community members, including members of the Greenforest Community Baptist Church, where she had been actively involved. According to WSB-TV, Merritt was last seen wearing a black mink coat, a red skirt, and black shoes. She was 4 feet 11 inches tall and weighed approximately 120 pounds. Friends from the church and the DeKalb County Police Department participated in the search, using drones to survey areas around Bouldercrest Road, where she was believed to be traveling on foot, as Merritt did not drive.
The DeKalb County Police Department issued a statement, obtained by FOX 5 Atlanta, confirming the conclusion of the search: "After days of searching, investigators found Ernestine Merritt deceased today. Her body was located in some woods behind the 3900 block of Old Ivy Court. Preliminary investigation suggests there is no foul play." Merritt, known as "Erni" to those close to her, had been a long-time member of her community.
Merritt’s absence drew attention when Felecia Prince, a friend and church member, told FOX 5 Atlanta that Merritt had intended to attend church on Sunday morning and was likely seen leaving her home around 4:20 a.m. on a Ring camera. Merritt, a retired educator, was known in her community for her sociable nature and long-standing connections with those who knew her.
Local authorities have canceled the Mattie’s Call, and the investigation remains ongoing, with early findings suggesting no foul play. Community members are now remembering Merritt and her contributions as a long-time member of the community.
