Cannot delete downloaded mkv video file

I downloaded a video file some time ago and have not been able to delete it. The only thing that happens is that a colored line progresses along the top of the window, I assume to search, but the file does not go away, and waiting for an hour never sees the end of the search or indexing. Even a drag and drop to the recycle bin does nothing. No error messages, and asking for properties starts the search progression again. Windows version 1903 (Build 18362.592). BTW, this is a clean reinstallation with backed up files restored to the computer.

rosawoodsii said:

I downloaded a video file some time ago and have not been able to delete it. The only thing that happens is that a colored line progresses along the top of the window, I assume to search, but the file does not go away, and waiting for an hour never sees the end of the search or indexing. Even a drag and drop to the recycle bin does nothing. No error messages, and asking for properties starts the search progression again. Windows version 1903 (Build 18362.592). BTW, this is a clean reinstallation with backed up files restored to the computer.

My first thought is the file is in use by some app or the system. Verify that it is not being used the best you can. Restart the system, and see if can be deleted then. If still the same, boot into Safe Mode and try to delete it.

Boot into Safe Mode on Windows 10

You could also try 'free' Lockhunter: Download LockHunter - MajorGeeks

I had rebooted a few times with no change, so booted into safe mode and was able to fix the problem. Interestingly, in safe mode the file didn't show and I was able to delete the folder. Thanks for the instructions on how to get into safe mode from W10. That did the trick.

The other two replies also gave me food for thought. Thanks for the suggestions.

rosawoodsii said:

I had rebooted a few times with no change, so booted into safe mode and was able to fix the problem. Interestingly, in safe mode the file didn't show and I was able to delete the folder. Thanks for the instructions on how to get into safe mode from W10. That did the trick.

The other two replies also gave me food for thought. Thanks for the suggestions.

Glad to hear that Safe Mode got your problem fixed.