Silver Alert: Search Intensifies for 81-Year-Old Jerry McConnell
Elderly Woman Vanishes During Routine Drive Home
Missing person in Kansas. Overland Park, Kansas — A statewide Silver Alert remains in effect as the search continues for 81-year-old Jerry McConnell. Authorities say she vanished while returning home from Harrisonville, Missouri, and hasn’t been seen since. Her unexpected disappearance has raised serious concern among family members and law enforcement alike.
McConnell was last seen on the afternoon of Wednesday, May 15, 2025, while driving toward her residence in Overland Park. She had reportedly departed Harrisonville and planned to return home shortly after. However, she never made it to her destination, and her family reported her missing soon after they lost contact.
Jerry McConnell : Physical Description and Vehicle Details
Jerry is described as a white female, standing 5 feet 6 inches tall and weighing approximately 140 pounds. She has gray hair and blue eyes, a distinctive appearance that may help with identification.
She was driving a gray 2009 Honda Accord with Texas license plates RFP836. The vehicle remains unaccounted for and is a central focus of the ongoing search. Notably, law enforcement believes she may still be inside the car.
On Thursday afternoon, there was a possible sighting of Jerry near Severy, Kansas—about 2.5 hours south of Overland Park. This unexpected location has expanded the scope of the investigation, prompting law enforcement agencies across multiple counties to get involved.
Why the Silver Alert Was Issued
While Jerry has no official diagnosis of cognitive decline, her age places her in a vulnerable category. In similar past cases, older adults who go missing often face physical risks, especially if lost without access to medication, water, or shelter. The Kansas Bureau of Investigation authorized the Silver Alert, stressing the urgency of locating her quickly.
Authorities have also noted that Jerry McConnell has not used her phone or bank cards since she disappeared. This silence further deepens the concern for her wellbeing. Her family has expressed that it is unlike her to go anywhere without staying in touch.
Community Joins the Search
In response, the Overland Park Police Department launched a large-scale search in coordination with nearby jurisdictions. Patrol officers are checking gas stations, highway rest stops, and rural roads. Meanwhile, residents in towns along the likely travel route have been encouraged to check their properties, including sheds and outbuildings.
Volunteers have posted flyers across several cities. The news is rapidly spreading through social media, and concerned citizens are sharing posts in hopes of generating new leads.
What You Can Do
If you believe you’ve seen Jerry McConnell or her vehicle, do not hesitate. Call 911 immediately. Be prepared to describe the location, direction of travel, time of sighting, and any vehicle details.
For non-urgent tips or information, contact the Overland Park Police Department at (913) 895-6300.
Every call matters. Even the smallest detail might bring Jerry one step closer to home.
Family’s Message to the Public
Jerry’s family continues to hope for her safe return. Her daughter shared this message through police:
“We miss her dearly. She’s a kind, loving mother who deserves to be home. Please keep your eyes open. Help us bring her back.”
As time passes, urgency increases. Yet many remain hopeful that someone will recognize her or her car and make the call that changes everything.
Please stay vigilant. Share her photo. Look twice while traveling. Together, the community can make a difference and help bring Jerry McConnell home safely.
