New evidence in Salla missing woman case casts doubt on river theory

Lapland police no longer believe a missing German woman entered the river, after reviewing a trail camera image, state broadcaster Yle reports.

The 50-year-old woman disappeared in the village of Saija on 29 June. Her empty car was later found in the Kuolajoki river.

Commissioner Mikko Pesola said the last confirmed sighting is a trail camera image from near Tenniöjoki, recorded around 14:00 on the day of her disappearance. Based on this, police strongly suspect she did not end up in the water.

Authorities have not launched a ground search, as the vast wilderness of Salla makes it impractical without leads. Pesola confirmed the woman’s identity is known to police and there is no indication she is hiding intentionally.

She is described as having shoulder-length brown hair. The public is asked to report any sightings to Lapland police.