MOUNT STERLING WOMAN FOUND DEAD IN SUBMERGED SUV

MOUNT STERLING — A missing Mount Sterling woman has been found dead after her vehicle was discovered submerged in a drainage ditch in Brown County, Illinois.

Authorities say 40-year-old Rachael E. Sampson was last seen around 6 p.m. Sunday south of Versailles, Illinois, as she was driving a 2003 Chevrolet Blazer to visit family members. When she failed to return home, the Brown County Sheriff’s Department was notified Tuesday afternoon and began searching while also speaking with friends and family.

An appeal for public assistance was issued early Wednesday afternoon. Just hours later, a caller reported spotting a vehicle matching the description on private property south of Versailles.

A responding deputy located the SUV overturned and submerged in water in a drainage ditch. Officials say the vehicle appeared to have been involved in a crash.

Sampson was found inside the vehicle and was pronounced dead at the scene.

An autopsy has been scheduled in Bloomington, and Illinois State Police are assisting with the ongoing investigation. Authorities are asking anyone with information to contact the Brown County Sheriff’s Department at 217-773-2011.