Ground search for missing Palmer woman suspended

A ground search of the Matanuska River for a missing Palmer woman was suspended with the onset of darkness Friday night.

The search for Rachel Mallard, 39, was focused on an area north of the Old Glenn Highway bridge, according to the Palmer Police Department. Chief Lance Ketterling released a statement Friday afternoon asking for the public’s help in locating Mallard, who was last seen at her home Wednesday.

According to police, some of Mallard’s belongings were found by hikers near the river.

A possible air search was expected to resume Saturday.

Police ask anyone with information on Mallard’s whereabouts to call 745-4811.

Following is the Friday news release:

The Palmer Police Department, in conjunction with emergency services from the Mat Su Borough and other volunteer organizations, is conducting a search and rescue operation in the vicinity of the Matanuska River Bridge. Two water rescue boats and three search dogs are aiding in the search for 39 year old Rachel L. Mallard from Palmer.

Mallard is currently a missing person who was last seen at her Palmer home on November 1. The search is focused on the area north of the Mat River Bridge where some of Mallard’s belongings were found by local hikers. Anyone with any information about Rachel’s whereabouts is encouraged to call the Palmer Police Department at 745-4811.