Missing Kansas mother Marilane Carter, who authorities believe was found dead in Arkansas this week, is said to have died of carbon monoxide poisoning, said the Crittenden County Sheriff’s Office.
The body was taken to the Arkansas State Crime Lab on Wednesday, officials said.
Cater’s death was also announced by the Leawood Baptist Church in Kansas, where her husband serves as a pastor.
“These have been the longest weeks of our lives, as we tried to cling to hope that Marilane was still alive. Thank you to all who have offered words of encouragement, prayers, tips, help, and support during this very difficult time,” the statement said.
They added: “We experienced firsthand the extreme love of friends and strangers. From a young woman who posted Marilane’s picture at truck stops all the way in Florida, to those who participated in prayer vigils, to those who volunteered to help us do a sonar search, the support has been amazing. Marilane was dearly loved by family and friends. The all-out effort to find her is a testimony to that.”
Family members previously told news outlets that she was driving to Birmingham, Alabama, to seek mental health counseling.