Missing Since: 1977-05-26 Location: Cornelius, Oregon
Karen was last seen in Cornelius, Oregon on May 26, 1977. Authorities believe she left with Rodney Grissom, who disappeared two days before she did. The pair reportedly planned to hitchhike to California. They called a friend from a pay phone in Lebanon, Oregon after leaving home, then Karen said, “Our ride is here. I have to go.” Karen and Rodney were never heard from again. Later that year, some of the pair’s belongings were found off a logging road in Linn County, Oregon. The items included Karen’s jeans, some pages from her journal, and a blouse she’d sewn, and Rodney’s watch and some of his other things. Karen’s jeans appeared to have been cut. Few details are available in Karen and Rodney’s cases, but foul play is suspected. Investigating Agency Hillsboro Police Department 503-681-5337 Source Information NamUs Facebook Page for Karen Lee The Oregonian Updated 3 times since October 12, 2004. Last updated April 1, 2021; details of disappearance updated.