Missing Elderly Couple Found Dead on Remote New Mexico Ranch
The elderly couple found dead on a New Mexico ranch had disappeared after Thanksgiving, leaving an open investigation.
Posted on 09/12/2025 at 19:54
- Elderly couple goes missing
- Found dead on ranch
- Investigation remains open
According to People en Español, an elderly couple in their 80s was found dead in a rural area of New Mexico after disappearing on their return from a Thanksgiving family celebration in Texas.
Linda and Gary Lightfoot never arrived at their home in Lubbock after visiting relatives in the Panhandle, prompting an intense search that kept authorities and loved ones on alert.
The family became concerned when they received no updates after the trip, as the couple usually communicated regularly and had no history of getting lost.
Although officials suspect they may have become disoriented along the way, the exact details remain under investigation.
Discovery of the missing couple’s vehicle and location
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The Lightfoots were reported missing when they did not return to their destination.
Five days later, their bodies were found in a remote area of Quay County, New Mexico, according to confirmation from the sheriff’s offices of Carson and Quay.
The news caused deep sadness among family members, who had held out hope of finding them alive despite the weather conditions.
Barbara Scheller, a relative of the couple, noted that no further details are available beyond what authorities have released.
Initial investigation and scene of the discovery
According to the Quay County Sheriff’s Office, the discovery was made after a resident reported seeing a suspicious vehicle on a remote ranch.
Officers arrived at the location west of Tucumcari and found the inoperable vehicle next to a tree line.
The vehicle, belonging to Linda and Gary, was stopped at the end of a pasture, suggesting they may have veered off the road or become stranded without being able to call for help.
Tragically, the couple was found dead in the same area.
Linda and Gary Lightfoot’s family memories and community legacy
The Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the investigation remains open as authorities analyze the circumstances surrounding their deaths.
Officials have not ruled out any possibilities as they await further information to clarify what occurred.
Scheller shared a statement describing the Lightfoots as genuine, kind people deeply devoted to their family.
She emphasized that their legacy lives on through the love and dedication they left with those who knew them.
Work history and community ties
Gary, a military veteran, worked for the Lamb County Sheriff’s Office and later served as Littlefield’s Chief of Police between 1993 and 2003.
He was also known for his carpentry skills, crafting pieces he often shared with loved ones.
Linda worked for an oil and gas company in Abilene and later in the banking sector.
She loved giving cards and small gifts during holidays and special celebrations.
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