Tucson family seeks public's help in finding missing relative

A family is asking for the public’s help in locating a loved one whose fate remains unknown after she was kidnapped along with another family member on May 1.

The McClurg family remains without closure more than three weeks after 65-year-old Sachiko McClurg was kidnapped along with her daughter, 41-year-old Jeni McClurg.

Authorities said the two were taken from the daughter’s home on the southwest side by Jeni McClurg’s estranged husband, Norman Schrank III.

James McClurg, Sachiko’s husband of 46 years, teared up when he spoke about his wife. He described her as a family woman, a loving mother and grandmother, and someone who is kind to everyone she meets.

“This has really been hard on all of us. I really want my wife back home. We need that closure,” he said.

“If you know anything about where she might be, please call the tip line. All calls are anonymous and there is a reward for anyone who is able to help us find her.”

Sachiko and James McClurg had recently moved to Tucson from California to live with their daughter while she undergoes cancer treatment.

Jeni McClurg is still recovering from wounds sustained in the ordeal, but has restarted her treatments, the family said.

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Schrank is suspected of killing his mother-in-law and abusing Jeni McClurg before being arrested in Pine, Ariz.

Jeni McClurg was found in Pine by deputies from Pima and Gila counties, and authorities said they believe Sachiko McClurg may be in the area.

On May 16, Schrank, who was in jail after being charged with multiple felonies, was found unresponsive in his cell by corrections officers, the Pima County Sheriff’s Department said. Detectives determined his death was a suicide.

Homicide Survivors Inc., which provides services to the relatives of violence victims, says it will continue to assist the McClurgs throughout the case. Sherri McClurg, another daughter of James and Sachiko McClurg, said the professionalism and care by the organization has been incredible.

Sachiko McClurg is described as Japanese-American, 5-foot-3, approximately 130 pounds, with brown eyes and black hair.

The McClurg family is asking the public to be vigilant and to report anything that may help authorities find her. Anyone with information should call 88-CRIME or 911.

“Thank you to everyone who has been praying, for your well wishes and support,” James McClurg said.