Submerged car discovery ends 16-month search for missing Alstonville woman
The discovery of a submerged car near Emigrant Creek has brought answers after a 16-month search for a missing Alstonville woman.
Family members confirmed the outcome in a funeral notice identifying the woman as Susan Lee Connors, known to family and friends as Sue.
The notice said it was shared “with heavy hearts” after the long wait for answers.
“While we had hoped for a different outcome, we are grateful to finally bring her home,” the family wrote.
Susan Connors had been missing since November 14, 2024. Police appeals at the time said she was known to frequent Alstonville, Lismore and Ballina.
Her disappearance was followed closely across the Northern Rivers, with many people sharing appeals and hoping she would be found safe.
The funeral notice described Sue as “a cherished and beautiful soul” whose life was “defined by love, laughter and kindness”.
She was the beloved daughter of Fred and Anne Connors, and a dear sister and sister-in-law to Leanne and Len Klassen, Sharon and Brian Anderson, and Janelle and Greg Holland.
The notice also described her as an “adoring aunt and great-aunt to their families”.
In keeping with the family’s wishes, a private interment has already been held.
“The family requests that you respect their privacy at this difficult time,” the notice said.
A picture of Susan Connor’s car issued by the police at the time of her disappearance. A vehicle matching it was located in Emigrant Creek two weeks ago.
NSW Police issued a statement earlier today confirming officers had located a submerged vehicle during a search near Emigrant Creek Boat Ramp on March 1.
Marine Area Command divers and Water Police searched the area before locating the vehicle.
The car was removed from the water by crane and taken to Ballina Police Station for forensic examination.
Police said a body believed to be that of a missing 59-year-old woman was located inside the vehicle.
A report will be prepared for the Coroner.
The discovery is unrelated to a separate investigation into missing woman Cicily Spiers, withe a Honda vehicle appearing to match her’s pulled from the Richmond River at Ballina on February 21. Forensic testing in that case is continuing.
