Michelle Hundley Smith, 38 when reported missing in 2001, was found alive 24 years later in Rockingham County, North Carolina. The Rockingham County Sheriff's Office confirmed her discovery after receiving new information and immediately locating her at an undisclosed location. Smith had disappeared on December 9, 2001, after leaving her Eden home to shop at K-Mart in Martinsville, Virginia, for Christmas.

A massive multi-agency investigation involving the NC State Bureau of Investigation, the DEA, and the FBI followed her disappearance. Her current whereabouts will remain confidential per her request. A family member expressed gratitude to supporters, particularly Smith's daughter.

This resolution ends one of the longest missing persons cases in the region.