Indiana Mother Found Alive After Missing for Over a Week
An Indiana mother, who had been missing for more than a week, was discovered alive in nearby woods shortly after a fire deemed “suspicious” broke out at her home.
Brittney Gard, 46, called 911 around 5:30 p.m. on October 8 from Hole Woods Preserve, located east of Bainbridge, Indiana. This area is about 4.5 miles from her home.
“Britney was located quickly thanks to the great coordination between the Putnam County Sheriff’s Deputies, Indiana Conservation Officers, state police detectives, and the caller,” Sheriff Jerrod E. Baugh stated.
She received medical attention at the scene before being taken to a hospital for further evaluation, but her current condition hasn’t been released.
The sheriff’s office clarified that they are not looking for any person of interest at this stage of the investigation, adding that there is no threat to the public.
Baugh expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts that made the rescue possible. “We are extremely relieved that we found Mr. Gard and can conclude this case,” he noted, thanking her family and the organizations involved.
Brittney had vanished after a fire started in her Putnam County home on October 1. Firefighters managed to put it out before searching inside, but she was not found.
Authorities pointed out that the fire’s cause is viewed as suspicious. Family members and law enforcement had been unable to contact Gard post-fire, leading to an extensive search of the nearby areas.
Her daughter returned home from a volleyball game to a scene filled with paramedics but was informed that her mother was missing, as reported by WRTV.
Additionally, it was noted that Gard had left her wallet and identification behind. Her family, including four sisters, came together from across the country to assist in the search efforts during her disappearance.
Details remain sparse regarding how Gard ended up in the forest or the circumstances surrounding the fire, as the investigation continues. Baugh urged that everyone keep the family and first responders in their thoughts and prayers.
