ISP seeks information on missing Kamiah grandmother

April 13, 2011

Lavina Irene Hietala
On April 7, 2011, Idaho State Police Detectives served a search warrant on the residence of Lavina Hietala in Kamiah, Idaho, seeking evidence concerning her disappearance from the residence on April 1, 2011.

 

Detectives recovered numerous items which will be further analyzed to determine their relevance. Based on the evidence recovered, it is unclear whether Lavina's disappearance is the result of foul play.

 

So far, detectives have developed information that indicates Lavina Hietala probably ended up in the Clearwater River, however, the details of that information will not be released at this time.

 

Based on the evidence so far, no suspects have been identified in this investigation. 
 
Officers from the Kamiah Marshal's Office, Lewis County Sheriff's Office, Clearwater County Sheriff's Office, and the Idaho County Sheriff's Office have been actively searching the area for Lavina. Due to the potential of her being in the Clearwater River, search efforts have been scaled down. Because of the low water temperature and high water flows, it is unlikely Lavina could survive being in the river since April 1.

 

All law enforcement agencies in the area have been advised of Lavina's disappearance.

Justin Michael Hietala
Lavina Hietala's grandson, Justin Hietala, remains in custody at the Lewis County jail on burglary charges. Detectives contacted Justin, who was unable to provide any information concerning Lavina's whereabouts.

 

Because Justin shared the residence with Lavina, detectives are seeking information concerning his activities during the week of March 28 through April 1, 2011.
 
Idaho State Police detectives continue to follow up on various leads and continue to seek any information in this case.

 

The Idaho State Police has been in contact with Lavina Hietala's immediate family, who have been very helpful and involved in this investigation, but more information is needed, and anyone who may have any information in this case is encouraged to contact ISP Lieutenant Charlie Spencer at (208) 799-5020, or by email at charlie.spencer@isp.idaho.gov.