Loretta “Kay” Colwell-Pilitsis, 55, has been reported missing after leaving her home in Pinon Hills on Monday, May 25, 2026.
Family members said Colwell-Pilitsis was last seen around 11 a.m. near Oasis Road and Locust Road. She left on foot to go for a walk, but family members said walking alone was not something she normally did. She did not take her phone with her, and her purse and identification were later found at home.
Colwell-Pilitsis is described as 5 feet, 11 inches tall and approximately 155 to 160 pounds. She has gray hair with some brown, blue eyes and wears prescription glasses. Family members said they do not know what clothing she was wearing when she left because she changed clothes before leaving. They believe she may have been wearing a hat similar to one shown in a family photo.
Family members said Colwell-Pilitsis has lived in the area for years, is familiar with the community and is known by many residents. They described her as friendly and likely to speak with people.
The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department responded and took a missing person report. Family members said deputies searched the property, and a helicopter and K-9 unit were used in the search. According to the family, the K-9 tracked her scent to Locust Road, where the scent was lost.
Local rescue groups, including Desert Rescue, and community members also searched the area. The family is not asking for volunteers at this time but is asking residents to check cameras and report any possible information.
Residents within about a five-mile radius of Oasis Road and Locust Road are asked to check security cameras, Ring cameras, game cameras or other video footage from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Sunday, May 25. Anyone who saw Colwell-Pilitsis or noticed anything unusual in the area during that time is asked to contact authorities.
“The family would like to express their extreme gratitude for all of the community’s help during this difficult time,” the family said in a statement. “So many neighbors, friends and rescue groups have come out to look for Kay. Thank you for all your thoughts and prayers. If you see anything, please reach out to us or the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department.”
Anyone who sees Colwell-Pilitsis or believes there is an immediate emergency should call 911. Anyone with information, possible past sightings or camera footage is asked to contact the Victor Valley Sheriff’s Station at (760) 552-6800 or Sheriff’s Dispatch at (760) 956-5001.
