Edna Nicole Pate missing for over 70 days in Garland County

Edna Nicole “Nikki” Pate remains missing in Garland County as search efforts continue. Her family and deputies are seeking information more than 70 days after her disappearance. Pate was 34 years old when family members last had contact with her on July 23.

Her mother, Janie Echols, said Pate was experiencing a severe mental health crisis at the time. The family was trying to convince Pate to go to a hospital for help. Echols said Pate grew upset during the talk, packed her belongings in her truck and left.

Her relatives have not seen her since that day. Her sister, Tasha Hawthorn, spoke about the ongoing wait.

“It has been over 70 days, over 70 days since we have seen Nicole,” Pate’s sister, Tasha Hawthorn, said.

Investigators later located Pate’s vehicle. The Garland County Sheriff’s Office said deputies also searched her home. Potential evidence was collected and submitted for forensic examination.

Investigators reviewed her financial records. They contacted medical facilities, shelters and businesses she visited. Family and community members conducted search efforts across Garland County. The sheriff’s department used cadaver and scent dogs during searches.

Hawthorn said the family received reports of possible sightings. None of the tips produced answers.

“And then you get these calls, well, we’ve seen her. Where’d you see her? Oh, we’ve seen her at the dollar store. And it turns out to be nothing,” Hawthorn said.

Pate is a mother of two young boys. Echols asked the public to share any details with law enforcement.

“I know there’s somebody out there that knows something. Please say something. Please come forward,” Echols said.

Hawthorn shared a direct message for her sister.

“We love you, Nikki. We want you home,” Hawthorn said.

Missing person investigations often involve property searches, digital records reviews and canine deployments. Sheriff’s offices coordinate with family members and the public to evaluate reported sightings. Forensics teams process collected items to identify potential leads.

Anyone with information about Pate’s whereabouts is asked to contact the Garland County Sheriff’s Office at 501-622-3660 or call 911. Her family is also asking people with information to call 501-520-1332.