Holbrook, AZ—Missing Pinedale woman Karen Blaine was located, deceased. Local resources and the Sheriff’s Office swiftly conducted an extensive search for Mrs. Blaine in October, and the community and the Sheriff’s Office resources continued until she was found.
On October 21, 2024, at approximately 1:00 p.m., the Navajo County Sheriff’s Office (NCSO) was dispatched to the 1200 block of Fox Lane in Pinedale for a report of a missing person. Karen Blaine, 75, of Pinedale, had not been seen or heard from since approximately 9:30 a.m. that morning.
A week-long intensive search and rescue operation was immediately launched. Teams from the NCSO, Navajo County Search and Rescue (NCSAR), the Clay Springs-Pinedale Fire Department, the White Mountain Sheriff’s Posse, NCSO Auxiliary Volunteers, local residents, and numerous partner agencies from outside Navajo County participated in the effort. Despite their tireless work, Karen was not located during the initial search period.
On October 28, 2024, the case transitioned into a limited continuous search, with authorities and volunteers maintaining periodic search efforts and follow-up on any leads.
On May 10, 2025, members of the Navajo County Search and Rescue team were conducting a routine training exercise in the Pinedale area when they located Ms. Blaine. Sadly, she was found deceased.
Tori Gorman, Navajo County Sheriff’s Office Public Information Officer, stated by email, “Mrs. Blaine’s death remains under investigation. The Cause and Manner of death are still pending the report of the examination by the Coconino County Medical Examiner’s Office. This may take several months for the final report to be received. There are presently no indications of foul play.”
“The Navajo County Sheriff’s Office extends its deepest condolences to the Blaine family during this difficult time. Our hearts and prayers remain with them, and we are grateful to all who assisted in the search for Karen over the past several months,” the Sheriff’s Office stated in the press release.
We send our deepest condolences to the Blaine family at this difficult time, Mountain Daily Star.