Rockingham County Sheriff’s Office Locates Missing North Carolina Woman Alive After 24 Years

After more than two decades of uncertainty, the Rockingham County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that Michele Hundley Smith, who was reported missing in 2001, has been found alive and in good health. The announcement brings long-awaited relief to her family and the local community who never stopped hoping for answers.

Michele was just 14 years old when she left her home in Stoneville on December 9, 2001. She told her family she was going Christmas shopping, but she never returned. Her disappearance was reported immediately, prompting authorities to launch an investigation.

At the time, the case drew significant attention throughout Rockingham County. Volunteers joined law enforcement officers in search efforts, and flyers with Michele’s photo were widely distributed. Her case was also entered into national missing persons databases in hopes of generating leads.

Despite extensive efforts, years passed without major developments. Investigators continued to review tips, revisit evidence, and pursue any new information that surfaced. The case remained open, with authorities determined not to let it go cold.

According to officials, Michele was recently located following new investigative developments. Law enforcement confirmed that she is alive and safe. However, specific details regarding where she has been living and the circumstances surrounding her disappearance have not yet been made public.

Authorities have not disclosed whether her disappearance was voluntary or if other factors were involved. The investigation is expected to continue as officials work to clarify what happened back in December 2001 and in the years that followed.

The case is considered one of the longest-running missing person investigations in the area. Michele’s discovery marks a surprising and emotional breakthrough, offering hope to other families still searching for missing loved ones.

Family members have asked for privacy as they process the news and reconnect after 24 years apart. For the community, the update closes a chapter filled with unanswered questions and replaces it with a sense of relief that many once thought might never come.