Conroe Search for Missing Woman Dana McCarty

**Conroe, TX – May 23, 2024** – The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) and a host of supporting agencies are intensifying search efforts for 39-year-old Dana Nicole McCarty, who has been missing from her Conroe home since Sunday night. Concerns for her safety are escalating as the search enters its fourth full day, complicated by challenging terrain and McCarty’s reported mental health concerns.

McCarty was last seen around 11 p.m. on Sunday, May 19, at her residence on Sleepy Hollow Road, near FM 1484. She was reported missing the following day, Monday, May 20, after reportedly walking away from her home without her cell phone, wallet, or any money. Officials have noted that McCarty has documented mental health concerns, which heightens the urgency and fear for her well-being.

“We are utilizing every available resource and working tirelessly to locate Dana,” stated MCSO Lt. Christopher Tinsley, who is overseeing the expansive search. “The challenging environment combined with the circumstances of her disappearance means every lead and every hour is critical. We urge the public to remain vigilant and report any information, no matter how small.”

McCarty is described as a white female, 5 feet 7 inches tall, weighing approximately 130 pounds, with brown hair and blue eyes. She has several distinctive tattoos, including “McCarty” on her left forearm, a “cross with wings” on her right shoulder, a “Tribal Cross” on her right calf, and a “dragon” on her right arm. When she was last seen, she was wearing a black T-shirt with a pink floral design, white shorts also with a pink floral design, and black cowboy boots.

The search operation is extensive, spearheaded by the MCSO Homicide/Missing Persons and Criminal Investigations units. On Tuesday, May 21, Texas EquuSearch, a non-profit organization specializing in missing persons cases, joined the efforts, significantly expanding the scope and resources deployed.

Crews are meticulously combing through dense wooded areas, numerous ponds, and sections of Lake Conroe near McCarty’s residence. The search has also expanded into parts of the Sam Houston National Forest, which borders the area and presents significant challenges due to its vastness and rugged terrain. Specialized equipment, including drones providing aerial surveillance, K9 units for ground scent tracking, horses, ATVs, and UTVs, are being deployed. Numerous dedicated volunteers are also assisting on foot, navigating the difficult landscape.

The area around Sleepy Hollow Road is characterized by rural properties, dense forests, and its close proximity to the sprawling Lake Conroe and the national forest, making the search for a person on foot incredibly arduous. Local residents have expressed deep concern, with many sharing McCarty’s information on social media to broaden the reach of the appeal.

Authorities are appealing to the public for any assistance. Anyone who may have seen Dana Nicole McCarty or has any information regarding her whereabouts is urged to contact the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office immediately at 936-760-5800. Please reference case #24A144809 when providing information.