A search is underway for a woman who went missing in Unity Township, Pennsylvania, where rescuers believe she fell into a sinkhole linked to an abandoned coal mine. She was last seen on Monday evening.
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Elizabeth Pollard, 59, went missing while searching for her cat near her home. She was reported missing early Tuesday morning after her vehicle was found with her five-year-old granddaughter inside. A nearby sinkhole, approximately the size of a manhole, is believed to have formed while she was walking, according to ABC News. Rescuers, including firefighters, a technical rescue team, and the state’s Bureau of Mine Safety, have been searching for Pollard. The sinkhole, which is thought to be connected to a mine that was last active in 1952, reportedly has unstable conditions.
Rescue crews initially entered the mine but had to stop due to the risk of collapse. The search has now shifted to using cameras to explore the sinkhole. Pleasant Unity Fire Chief John Bacha described the process as “long and tedious,” but authorities are determined to continue as long as it is safe.
Search cameras revealed a large void, but no sounds were detected. A shoe was found inside the sinkhole, although it was not recovered. Pollard’s granddaughter was found unharmed despite the cold overnight temperatures and is now with her parents.
The family is asking for privacy while holding onto hope for Pollard’s safe return. “It’s heartbreaking for her family and everyone here,” said Pennsylvania State Police Trooper Steve Limani.
