Search Continues for Missing Solvang Woman

Twelve days ago, Marilyn Morgan, a Solvang resident at the independent living facility Atterdag Village, drove off in her white hatchback car without her cell phone or purse and has not returned. The 83-year-old was reported missing shortly after she was last seen at 11 a.m. on October 19.

On Monday, Sheriff’s spokesperson Kelly Hoover issued a press release that stated an Atterdag employee contacted the Sheriff’s Office after Morgan did not show up for lunch on October 19. “When she did not show up for dinner either, staff became very concerned for her safety and well-being and reported her missing,” Hoover said.

Morgan reportedly tried to commit suicide in August. According to the Sheriff’s Office, Morgan is believed to be suicidal “based on past behavior and a statement she made to a friend prior to leaving.”

Hoover added, “Shortly after Morgan was reported missing, the Sheriff’s Office issued a ‘be on the lookout’ for Morgan and her vehicle. Morgan and her vehicle were entered into the Missing Persons database. The Santa Barbara County Sheriff/Fire Air Support Unit has conducted aerial searches but Morgan and her vehicle have not been located.”

Chris Parker, the director of Atterdag, said he has been concerned about Morgan in the past. After her previous attempted suicide, Parker said she received outpatient psychiatric care. “She was doing tremendously well,” he said. “We thought she was on the mend and things were in great shape.” Parker said he has been in contact with Morgan’s son, who relayed Morgan had struggled with depression long before she moved into Atterdag 11 years ago.


Morgan’s car is a four-door hatchback 2004 Saturn Vue, according to the Sheriff’s Office. The license plate number is 5ESJ690. She is 5’5’’, 200 pounds, and has short white hair (She is wearing a wig in the attached photo.)

This story will be updated as more information becomes available.