Lifang Cheng is safe and back with her family.
RCMP confirmed this afternoon (July 15) the 69-year-old Coquitlam woman was found and reunited with loved ones after a week-long missing person's investigation on Burke Mountain.
Mounties explained Cheng was diagnosed with dementia in an update from Thursday (July 13).
Though unconfirmed, a witness told the Tri-City News that Cheng was allegedly found sitting in a residential backyard.
"Coquitlam RCMP would like to thank all our policing and community partners, Coquitlam Search and Rescue (SAR), the media and the public for their assistance," said spokesperson Cpl. Alexa Hodgins.
"We couldn't have asked for a better outcome."
Hodgins added Coquitlam RCMP's general investigation section is now looking to establish a timeline of Cheng's disappearance from the last week.
She was reported missing to Mounties on Monday (July 10) as her family had become concerned for her health and well-being.
She was last seen that morning near the intersection of Harper Road and Mitchell Street.
Volunteers with Coquitlam SAR were called in to help with the investigation on Tuesday (July 11), using boots on the ground as well as a helicopter to scan the Burke Mountain area.
Cheng is set to be examined by health services, Hodgins said, and victim services is still consulting with her family.
Anyone with more information or video footage on Cheng's whereabouts this past week is encouraged to call Coquitlam RCMP at 604-945-1550 and quote file-number 2023-18227.
Officials are also using this incident as a reminder for walkers, hikers and other outdoor enthusiasts to be mindful when venturing onto local trail systems, especially those on Burke Mountain.
