Missing for 5 Years, Daughter's Remains Found After Family Contacts Drone Company For Help
The quiet town of Derry, New Hampshire, became the center of a heartbreaking discovery when human remains found near a local golf course were identified as Amanda Grazewski, a young mother who vanished in 2020. After five long years of unanswered questions and relentless searching, one chapter came to a close when a drone company helped pinpoint a suspicious marshy area near a golf course — leading authorities to Grazewski's remains.
Vanished Without a Trace
Amanda Grazewski was 23 when she disappeared; on March 17, 2020, she was last seen at a friend's home where she was staying. She left behind her purse, cell phone, and other personal belongings — items no one would normally go far without. Despite intense search efforts over the years, there were no signs of Grazewski, and her fate remained unknown.
Her sudden disappearance left her family, including her young daughter, in a painful limbo. At that time, she didn't own a vehicle and had reportedly been dealing with substance use issues. In the period leading up to her disappearance, she had spent time in several New Hampshire towns, including Nashua, Salem, Manchester, and Hooksett.
Family Turns to Drones in Final Search Effort
In a desperate search for answers, Grazewski's family reportedly reached out to 2A TAC Air OPS Drone Services in 2024, hoping technology could succeed where traditional searches had failed. Company owner Robert Russell said they initially focused on a wooded area near the golf course in Derry. While early flights didn't reveal much, Russell teamed up with Jenness Keller of Skydog Aerial Drones, whose drones were equipped with advanced 3D mapping technology.
Keller, who has a background in engineering and forensic mapping, repeatedly scanned the area over the course of a year, eventually identifying a suspicious spot in a marshy patch of land. Keller shared detailed digital maps with a Derry police detective, and just one day later, a discovery was made.
Discovery Near a Golf Course
On March 20, 2025, police found skeletal remains near the Hoodkroft Country Club in Derry. After forensic analysis, the New Hampshire Department of Justice confirmed the remains belonged to Grazewski. The cause and manner of her death are still being investigated by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner and the Derry Police Department.
Community and Family Still Seek Justice
New Hampshire Attorney General John M. Formella released a statement expressing his condolences. "Our thoughts are with Amanda Grazewski's family during this incredibly difficult time. We extend our deepest sympathy to them," he said, as reported by PEOPLE. Formella continued, "I also want to express my gratitude to the dedicated law enforcement and forensic professionals involved in this case, as well as to the community members who have provided valuable tips throughout this investigation."
While Grazewski's body has finally been found, those closest to her are still looking for closure.
On Facebook, Grazewski's mother expressed both heartbreak and relief, writing, "I don't have to worry any more that you were cold, hungry, hurt, being mistreated, I don't have to worry that you are sick or suffering, no more worrying if you are alone or afraid... We have you now, your safe.. You will be home with those who loved you, who missed, who searched and kept speaking your name.. You were never forgotten you never will be... Amanda forever ours," as reported by PEOPLE.
Authorities haven't released any information about whether foul play is suspected. They are urging anyone with information to contact the Derry Police Department.
References: A New Hampshire Woman Went Missing in 2020. Her Skeletal Remains Were Just Found on a Golf Course | Human remains found near New Hampshire golf course identified as woman missing since 2020
