Missing Reedsburg woman found alive 62 years later

Sixty-two years ago, Audrey Backeberg disappeared from Reedsburg after reportedly hitchhiking with her family’s babysitter and catching a bus to Indianapolis. Nobody ever knew where she went or what happened to her. She was found alive and safe in another state last week, thanks to the fresh eyes from a deputy who took over the case in February. Detective Isaac Hanson discovered an out-of-state arrest record that matched Backeberg, which triggered a series of investigative moves that led to finding her alive and safe in another state. Turns out Backeberg chose to leave the town of Reedsburg on her own accord — likely due to an abusive husband. Backeberg, who is now in her 80’s told the deputy it was still important that she not be found. Hanson described discovering her safe after more than six decades practically unheard of. And while he doesn’t know what will happen next in terms of her family reconnecting, he said he was happy that she can reach out if she wants to.