Deputies in McDowell County are searching for a missing woman who they say may be armed, after her truck was found abandoned at the entrance to a popular waterfall trail. The McDowell County Sheriff's Office said 28-year-old Elise Elbe Grabda was last seen driving a white Toyota Tacoma on Monday, and the vehicle later turned up at Tom's Creek Falls, where emergency crews have been searching the area.
According to FOX Carolina, the sheriff's office confirmed an active search is underway for Grabda, who is described as having brown hair, blue eyes, and standing 6 feet tall. Deputies said she was last seen in McDowell County driving the white pickup before it was located at the trailhead for Tom's Creek Falls, where emergency personnel have been conducting a search of the grounds.
Deputies Warn She May Be Armed
Officials cautioned that Grabda may be carrying a weapon and should not be approached by anyone who spots her. The same report notes that deputies are urging residents to call authorities rather than make contact themselves if they encounter her.
Anyone with information on Grabda's whereabouts is asked to call McDowell County Communications at (828) 652-4000. Deputies have not released further details about the circumstances surrounding her disappearance.
About the Search Site
Tom's Creek Falls, where Grabda's truck was discovered, is a year-round destination located south of the Blue Ridge Parkway at Milepost 316 off Highway 221 South, according to Destination McDowell. The site draws visitors for its hiking access, making it a familiar landmark for locals now watching the search unfold there.
No further updates on the search's progress had been reported as of Wednesday. McDowell County officials continue to ask the public for any information that could help locate Grabda.
