AMBER Alert for missing Wisconsin teen expanded to include Missouri

MISSOURI (WTVO) — The search for a missing 16-year-old Wisconsin girl, thought to be in the company of the 40-year-old man who impregnated her, has expanded into Missouri.

According to an AMBER Alert issued in Wisconsin and Illinois, Sophia Franklin was last seen in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin at 7:48 a.m. on Monday, February 3rd.

Franklin is described as a white female, 5′ 9″, 186 lbs, with brown hair and blue eyes, and currently three months pregnant.

Police say she was taken by the father of her unborn child, Gary Day, of Arkansas, thought to be traveling in black 2014 Buick LaCrosse with Pennsylvania plate number KGW 5186. Police said the car also utilizes an Arkansas plate, BBR 20L.

Day is described as white, 5′ 7″, 165 lbs, with blond hair and green eyes.

According to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, Day is on probation for endangering a child.

Her family said the pair met online last April. Day reportedly took her to Arkansas without her parent’s knowledge in July. She was returned to Wisconsin after Arkansas police visited Day’s house for a probation check and found the teenager inside.

On Wednesday, the Missouri State Highway Patrol said the pair may be traveling through the state on the way to Arkansas.

Franklin’s family released a statement, saying, “Sophie has been gone for a week. We don’t know what to do other than wait and pray. It’s a torment. Her absence is felt every moment. There is so much on the horizon for you, Sophie. Hard things, yes, but GOOD things too. And your family is here for all of it. We aren’t going anywhere- we just need you to come back. Your value isn’t found in how much money you make, how hard you work, or even the affirmation of others. Sophie, you are a soul made by God and fully known by God and entirely loved by God. You are a gift to us. For all our family and friends: THANK YOU. Please don’t stop sharing. Sophie needs to be home. Please let law enforcement know if you think of anything that might be significant in getting her back.”