Missing woman found safe after reportedly being picked up by a stranger when she ran out of gas

Oregon State Police are asking the community to help them find a missing woman.
Published: Apr. 3, 2026 at 7:23 PM CDT|Updated: Apr. 3, 2026 at 7:24 PM CDT

*Note: The video contains dated information from a previous report.

MARION COUNTY, Ore. (KPTV/Gray News) - A woman who was reported missing earlier this week after running out of gas along Highway 22 in Oregon has been found safe, according to police.

Maria Linda Jade Kilmer, 28, was last seen Saturday, March 28, at about 9 p.m. on Highway 22 near milepost 15, just outside of Stayton.

Oregon State Police said her car ran out of gas while she and a passenger were driving from Lyons to Salem.

Officials say the passenger told police that Kilmer left with an unidentified driver who had stopped at the scene. The passenger also said Kilmer left her keys, purse, identification and phone behind.

On Friday, police announced Kilmer has been found safe and unharmed.

No other details about the incident were immediately released.