The disappearance of Charles “Gary” Lightfoot, 82, and his wife, Linda Eppers Lightfoot, 81, sparked deep concern across Texas after the couple failed to return home from a Thanksgiving family visit. They were last seen on November 27 leaving Panhandle, Texas, for what should have been a routine drive back to Lubbock. When they did not arrive, relatives quickly alerted authorities, prompting a Silver Alert and launching a widespread search for the pair.
Investigators began retracing the couple’s path by tracking their silver Toyota Camry through license plate reader data. The vehicle was spotted near Groom, Texas, and later near Santa Rosa, New Mexico—indicating movement but offering few clues about why they strayed from their route. Without cell phones or GPS devices, officials faced significant challenges attempting to reach the couple or determine their exact location, heightening urgency as the hours stretched on.
Authorities ultimately located the Lightfoots in Quay County, New Mexico. Early reports indicated that no foul play was suspected. Officials stated that a medical review would help clarify the circumstances surrounding their disappearance and final hours. The update brought closure, though not the outcome family members and search teams had hoped for.
Community leaders and loved ones expressed heartfelt gratitude for the agencies and volunteers who worked tirelessly throughout the search. Gary Lightfoot was well-known and respected for his decades in law enforcement, including his decade-long service as Police Chief of Littlefield from 1993 to 2003. The couple is remembered not only for their public service and dedication, but also for the deep devotion they showed to one another. Their loss has been felt profoundly across the communities they touched.