Body of Missing Colorado Woman Found Just Steps from Home

UPDATE: The body of Terri Ann Ackerman, a 56-year-old woman missing for over seven years, was discovered just feet from her Lochbuie home on September 10, 2023. This shocking discovery has sent ripples through the community, raising urgent questions about the investigation into her disappearance.

The remains were found inside a detached garage by a man cleaning the property prior to its sale. Initially mistaking the bone for a Halloween decoration amid fake skeletons, he quickly realized the grim reality and called 911. Terri’s stepson, Sean Ackerman, described receiving the devastating news: “I got a phone call… and she said, ‘Are you sitting down?’”

Lochbuie police have confirmed that the remains belong to Terri, who vanished from her home at 130 Poplar St. in August 2018. Since her disappearance, extensive searches utilizing drones and canine units had failed to locate her, leading to criticism of the police’s efforts. Sean expressed frustration over missed opportunities, questioning how cadaver dogs could have overlooked a body just “three feet in” from the garage door.

In the years since Terri’s disappearance, her family has pointed fingers at her husband, Delbert “Dale” Ackerman, who passed away in February 2023. While he was never charged in connection to her disappearance, suspicions lingered. Sean stated, “I don’t believe my father could have killed his wife,” emphasizing the emotional toll on their family.

The Weld County Coroner’s Office has yet to determine the cause of death, leaving many unanswered questions. Sean inherited the property containing the garage, which was in disrepair and unsalable, listed for $150,000 on August 31, 2023. The garage itself was filled with debris, making the discovery even more tragic.

Terri’s daughter, Ambyr Carolus, recalled her mother’s distress the night before she disappeared, exacerbating the pain felt by the family. Terri’s mental health struggles, including bipolar disorder, were previously highlighted, complicating the narrative surrounding her disappearance.

As the investigation continues, the Lochbuie Police Department has not provided comments on whether the garage was included in prior searches. This case has raised significant concerns about the thoroughness of the police investigation and the handling of evidence.

Sean Ackerman’s reflections on his father’s life after Terri’s disappearance reveal a haunting reality. He noted, “None of Terri’s belongings had been touched,” indicating the profound impact her absence had on Delbert.

This tragic case has left the community reeling and searching for answers. As the investigation unfolds, authorities are expected to provide further updates on the circumstances surrounding Terri’s death.

Stay tuned for more breaking news on this developing story.