Missing Tooele woman found dead in Salt Lake City

SALT LAKE CITY — A missing mother of two who was in crisis and disappeared last week was found dead Tuesday night.

Karen Crawford, 43, was seen leaving work around 11 a.m. Friday in her black Mazda CX-5. She later made a purchase in the Murray area near Fashion Place Mall before disappearing.

Family members confirmed to KSL TV that Salt Lake City police officers found Crawford dead inside her car at approximately 10:15 p.m. Tuesday.

“This is an active investigation still, but at this time, we don’t suspect foul play. Our hearts are with Ms. Crawford’s family and loved ones at this time as they navigate this time of grieving,” Tooele police said in a statement. “We would like to thank the members of the public who called in tips in regards to this case. We would also like to thank the Salt Lake City Police Department for their assistance in investigating this case with us.”

Family members told KSL TV they were “so thankful for all of the support” they’ve received.

Crawford’s sister, Christy Johnson, described her sister as a loving and kind mother and wife, who in recent months began to struggle with her mental health. She said Crawford recently moved into a new home and underwent foot surgery.

“Getting rest, advocating for your needs, that would be something Karen would struggle with, she wouldn’t be able to say I need a break and stop,” Johnson said.

Johnson said that on the surface, you wouldn’t know her sister struggled with mental health. In recent weeks, Johnson said Crawford attempted self-harm and was receiving help from medical professionals and taking medication.

“Mental illness is extremely difficult; they can have all the love and support in the world but finding that right balance of medication and support is really hard,” Johnson said.

A *GoFundMe has been set up to help Crawford’s family during their time of grief.

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*KSL TV does not assure that the money deposited to the GoFundMe account will be applied for the benefit of the persons named as beneficiaries. If you are considering a deposit, you should consult your own advisors and otherwise proceed at your own risk. 

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If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts or exhibiting warning signs, call, text, or chat the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 which is answered 24/7/365 by crisis counselors at the Huntsman Mental Health Institute. All calls to legacy crisis hotlines, including the old National Suicide Prevention hotline, 1-800-273-8255, will also connect to a crisis care worker at the Huntsman Mental Health Institute as well.

Additional resources

• SafeUT: Parents, students, and educators can connect with a licensed crisis counselor through chat by downloading the SafeUT app or by calling 833-3SAFEUT (833-372-3388)
• SafeUT Frontline: First responders, including firefighters, law enforcement, EMS, and healthcare professionals can chat with a licensed crisis counselor at no cost 24/7/365 by downloading the SafeUT Frontline app.
• SafeUTNG: Members of the National Guard can chat with a licensed crisis counselor at no cost 24/7/365 by downloading the SafeUTNG app.
• Utah Warm Line: For non-crisis situations, when you need a listening ear as you heal and recover from a personal struggle, call 1-833 SPEAKUT 8:00 a.m.-11:00 p.m., 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
• The Huntsman Mental Health Institute offers a wide variety of programs and services including suicide prevention and crisis services, hospital treatment, therapy & medication management, substance Use & addiction recovery, child & teen programs, and maternal mental health services including birth trauma, pregnancy loss, infertility, and perinatal mood and anxiety disorders.
• LiveOnUtah.org is a statewide effort to prevent suicide by promoting education, providing resources, and changing Utah’s culture around suicide and mental health. They offer resources for faith based groups, LGBTQ+, youth, employers, firearm suicide prevention, and crisis and treatment options.