Local authorities continue search for missing Bainbridge woman

The search for a missing Putnam County woman continues in earnest, according to local law enforcement officials. 

Britney Gard, of Bainbridge, was last seen on Sept. 30. On  Oct. 1, a 911 call was received in regards to a structure fire at 6243 E. County Rad 600 North, Bainbridge. Upon arrival, first responders found smoke coming out of the residence. A check of the home determined nobody was in the residence. 

An investigation revealed the home owner, which is Gard, 46, was missing.

Putnam County Sheriff Jerrod Baugh announced Friday afternoon that three fire investigators were summoned to the fire scene and are still compiling evidence and information from the crime scene. 

"Fire investigators advise that they believe the fire that started in the house is suspicious in nature. Full findings will be relayed to criminal investigators as the fire investigation continues," Baugh said. 

According to Baugh, a drone was used to assist search efforts the night of the fire and Putnam County CERT continued searching the following day, while the Indiana Department of Natural Resources was contacted regarding searches of the pond on the property. Gard has not been located. 

"We continue to investigate this case around the clock and are involved with her family to find Britney. Since this is an active investigation and we continue to gather information hourly, we will not be discussing any further particularly evidence or information until we can complete this endeavor and find Britney Gard," Baugh said. 

Baugh said his office, as well as other law enforcement agency detectives are using technology based investigative tools and programs to locate Gard.

Gard is described as a white female, 46 years old, standing 5-feet-9-inches, 140 pounds and long black hair. She was last seen or spoken to at 9:24 p.m. on Sept. 30. Anyone with information into her whereabouts are asked to call 765-653-5115, extension zero.