Chico, California – Concern is growing for the safety of Dolores Sakamoto, 84, and her daughter, Vivian Luna, 64, who have been missing for 20 days after being last seen leaving their residence in Chico on July 21, 2024. A Silver Alert was issued by the California Highway Patrol on July 23, 2024, after a neighbor reported their disappearance. Despite extensive search efforts, including the involvement of the Siskiyou County Sheriff’s Office and aerial searches by the California Highway Patrol, no trace of the women or their vehicle, a black 1996 Lexus ES 300 with California license plate 6KSP061, has been found.
Investigators have been working diligently to track the movements of Sakamoto and Luna using bank records, cellular data, and automated license plate readers. These efforts revealed that the mother and daughter traveled to Susanville, California, on July 21, where video surveillance confirmed their presence. The next day, Luna’s phone was detected near the Mount Shasta Ski Park, leading authorities to search the area extensively. Despite these efforts, Sakamoto, Luna, and their vehicle remain missing.
The Butte County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the case and urges anyone with information to come forward. Detective Caleb Angel is leading the investigation and can be contacted at 530-538-7322.
The local community has rallied around the search efforts, with many sharing their thoughts and prayers on social media. Charles L. Thompson expressed his concern on Facebook, while Karla K. Larsson, an admin for the Butte County Fires, Accidents, and Crimes group, urged people to share the missing persons’ information widely. Charlotte Holdaway shared in Ohio, adding, "Prayers they’re found in good condition." Dave Killion echoed the worries of many, saying, "Oh my gosh, I’m so worried for their safety. Please share any updates, thank you."
The continued lack of information has led to widespread anxiety, with community members like Genevieve Martin suggesting checking prison records in Susanville, and Tonya Mosher questioning whether the phone might have been lost or stolen.
As the search enters its third week, the community’s hope and prayers are with Dolores Sakamoto and Vivian Luna, hoping for their safe return. The Butte County Sheriff’s Office remains committed to finding them and continues to request any assistance from the public.