Colorado Cold Case Files: The Disappearance of Terri Ackerman

The Colorado Bureau of Investigation database lists nearly 2,000 cold cases that remained unsolved in the Centennial State. That means thousands of families, friends, and loved ones are still without closure, after already experiencing significant loss in their lives.

Cold cases can weigh heavily on the families and communities involved, as they not only deal with the initial trauma of loss but also the ongoing uncertainty and lack of justice. Many of these cases involve violent crimes, such as homicides or disappearances, and it's tragic to think about how many people are still searching for answers.

The Colorado Cold Case Database features unsolved homicides, missing person, and unidentified person cases to assist law enforcement agencies in the development of information, which can lead to the identification, and arrest of any person(s) who may have committed any crime. Dedicated cold case units and technology advancements can also help bring new evidence to light regarding these crimes.

One Colorado case yet to be solved surrounds the suspicious disappearance of a 57-year-old woman from Lochbuie, Colorado.

On August 24, 2018, police were dispatched to the 100 block of Poplar Street in Lochbuie on a report of a missing person. While on scene, officers spoke with Delbert Ackerman, who explained that his wife Terri Anne Ackerman, had left their home, and he was unsure of her current whereabouts.

According to Delbert Ackerman, his wife was last seen sleeping in her bedroom around 5 a.m. that morning. Upon returning from work in the evening, Delbert discovered Terri was not at the residence, however all of her personal belongings were. This included her cellphone, ID, wallet, and car.

Delbert further advised that Terri was upset the night before and stated she could no longer babysit her grandchildren. Other relatives confirmed this statement, saying she was in a moderately good mood while babysitting the day prior, but then called her daughter out of the blue and sounded to be in anguish. During this phone call, Terri said she couldn’t watch the kids the following day, which seemed strange to her family members. Ackerman did not explain why she was unable to watch her grandkids, and further claimed to have not slept.

It is unknown if Terri left with anyone, or her means of travel. She is Caucasian, five-foot-four and has brown hair with hazel eyes. Another identifying factor is the colorful tattoo on her right arm. Terri was last seen wearing a teal short-sleeved shirt, light blue jeans, and a gold wedding band with her hair in a clip.

While many believe Terri's late husband, Delbert Ackerman may have had something to do with her disappearance, it's never been proven. Her body has never been found either.

Anyone with information regarding this case is asked to please contact the Lochbuie Police Department at (303) 659–1395.