LIBBY — Authorities continue to search for an Illinois man reported missing in Northwest Montana.
U.S. Border Patrol agents alerted the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office on Sept. 17 after finding a suspicious vehicle in the Northwest Peak area of the Pete Creek drainage. The vehicle, a white 2021 Toyota Corolla, was registered to David Hepfer.
Sheriff Darren Short said agents initially investigated the vehicle in connection with a potential illegal border crossing. Hepfer’s roommate confirmed that he had planned a camping trip in Northwest Montana.
The car was located in an unusual spot, away from trailheads, campsites, or scenic areas. Attempts to track Hepfer’s phone showed no activity for the previous 48 hours. Search teams, including the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office and David Thompson Search and Rescue, deployed dogs and a drone but have not located him. Hepfer left his camping gear, personal belongings, and car keys inside the vehicle.
Hepfer, 35, has been officially listed as a missing person. He is about 200 pounds, tall, with blue eyes, short bald hair, and brown facial hair.
Katie Hepfer, David’s sister-in-law, described him as adventurous, smart, and “down for anything.” She said David moved to Montana from Chicago after touring the Western U.S. and fell in love with the state. The family last had contact with him on Sept. 9, which they said was typical for him.
Anyone with information is asked to call the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office at 406-293-4112 or text 9-1-1.
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