Chatham County Sheriff’s Office update on missing Pittsboro woman

COMMUNITY NEWS

The Chatham County Sheriff’s Office confirms that a body believed to be that of 83-year-old Alice McIlvaine Parson, who went missing from her Pittsboro home in October, was found Wednesday afternoon in Person County.

A local farmer discovered the body at approximately 3 p.m. in an area off Burlington Road in Hurdle Mills. The body, found in a vehicle confirmed to be Parson’s gray 2009 Ford Escape approximately one mile off the road and down an embankment, fits the description of Parson, who was last seen on October 17, 2024. However, positive identification and determination of the cause of death will be made by the State Medical Examiner’s Office.

In this case, the Chatham County Sheriff’s Office expresses its appreciation for community support and the individuals who provided tips and information.

“Our deepest gratitude goes to everyone who shared information and helped in our search efforts,” said Chatham County Sheriff Mike Roberson. “Community involvement is crucial, and we are grateful for the support we received.”

Parson was reported missing after family members, concerned for her well-being, requested a welfare check on October 18. Deputies responding to her residence on Graycliff Road discovered her gray 2009 Ford Escape missing, though her cell phone was found on the kitchen counter. Searches by law enforcement followed in the days after her disappearance.

Michelle Cassell is a seasoned reporter who has covered everything from crime to hurricanes and local politics to human interest over the course of 35 years. As managing editor, she hopes to encourage writers of a wide range of backgrounds and interests in TLR’s coverage of Southern Orange County news.
This reporter can be reached at Info@TheLocalReporter.press