A woman from Early, reported missing by family and friends for several days,  is dead after a vehicle crash was discovered at U.S. Highway 377 and FM 45.  The deceased is Elsie Virginia Ripple, 38, of Early, Texas.

According to the Department of Public Safety, a DPS Trooper, who was on traffic patrol, noticed motor vehicle tracks in the ditch at the intersection of FM 45 and US 377. Further investigation yielded the discovery of a fatal motor vehicle traffic crash. The Trooper discovered a Ford Ranger, and the body of the registered owner outside the vehicle, in the ravine.

According to the DPS, investigation of the crash scene revealed the driver was traveling northwest on FM 45. The vehicle crossed US 377 striking an embankment leaving a large divot. The vehicle continued to travel up the embankment approximately 80 feet striking a fence and several trees. The vehicle traveled a short distance before dropping off 47 feet into a ravine. The vehicle struck the front portion on an embankment coming to rest on a large boulder.  The crash date and time are unknown at this time.  The crash was discovered Saturday, June 8, around 4:15 p.m.