Police searching for American tourist missing in León province

Spanish National Police are looking for a 40-year-old American woman who has disappeared in the town of Astorga, in northern León province.

Denise Pikka Thiem had been walking the famous Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route and until 20 days ago had always kept in close contact with her brother by email and text message.

After being unable to contact her for several days, her brother traveled to Spain to report her missing.

The last time anybody heard from her was on the afternoon of April 4 when she sent a text message to a friend saying she was in Astorga. Investigators have determined that her intention had been to continue her hike to the town of El Ganso, also in León province.

The last time anybody heard from her was on April 4 when she told a friend she was in Astorga

Denise has Indo-Asian features, is 1.6 meters tall, weighs between 50 and 53 kilos, and has long, straight hair.

National Police have asked the public to come forward if they have any information about her whereabouts, either by calling emergency number 091 or 987616091.