UPDATE: Santa Barbara News Anchor Found
Update 6:49 p.m.: Santa Barbara news anchor Paula Lopez has returned home, according to a statement posted on the website of news station KEYT. The Santa Barbara County Sheriff Department lead the rescue in tandem with Santa Barbara County Search and Rescue, according to KEYT.
Santa Barbara news anchor Paula Lopez was reported missing at about 10 a.m. Wednesday morning, prompting a full-scale search-and-rescue mission.
Santa Barbara County Sheriff's Office said in a press release at 4:50 p.m. that "No foul play is suspected but her family is concerned about her welfare."
Sheriff's deputies, detectives, two K-9 units, and an Air Support Unit helicopter have been enlisted in the search for the 48-year-old anchor, whose last known location was at her Santa Barbara home.
KEYT General Manager Mark Danielson released the following statement:
This morning we learned that a beloved member of the KEYT family, Paula Lopez has gone missing. We have been in touch with her family and know they, as well as local authorities, are doing everything possible to find her safe and sound. It is clearly a difficult time for her family and our own family at KEYT. All of us at KEYT stand ready to assist in any way we can. For now, on behalf of KEYT and NPG of California our thoughts and prayers are extended to Paula as well as her family and those searching to find her. We hope for her safe and speedy return.
Those who see Lopez or have information as to her whereabouts are urged to call the Santa Barbara County Detectives Bureau at (805) 681-4150.
I have been worried about for months, ever since she had a "sudden" weight loss, One night she was slurring her speach on air and I called the station to report my concerns. It is clear that she is not well, not like our ole Paula, I hope she get the help she needs, SHe is a very loved instituition in santa barbara.