Authorities have issued an Amber Alert for 16-year-old Sophia Martha Franklin from Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, who is three months pregnant and believed to be with 40-year-old Gary F. Day, the alleged father of her unborn child. Franklin was last seen at her residence around 9 p.m. on Sunday. The following evening, Day was reportedly seen in the area, raising concerns that she may have left with him voluntarily or under coercion.
Law enforcement officials believe the two may be traveling in a black 2014 Buick LaCrosse, which has been spotted with both Arkansas and Pennsylvania license plates. Investigators suspect they could be heading toward Austin, Arkansas, where Day has known connections.
Day faces multiple felony charges, including child abduction and child enticement. He has a history of offenses against minors and was already under investigation when Franklin disappeared. Authorities have revealed that their relationship began online in early 2024, and Day previously took Franklin from Wisconsin to Arkansas, where she was later discovered during a police check in December. She was returned to her family, but concerns remained about continued communication between the two.
Local police, along with federal agencies, are actively searching for Franklin and are urging anyone with information to come forward. Law enforcement emphasizes that the primary goal is to ensure her safety and return her home.
Community members have expressed concern for Franklin’s well-being, with local organizations holding prayer vigils and offering support to her family. Authorities continue to follow leads and are working diligently to locate both Franklin and Day. The public is encouraged to report any sightings or information that may assist in the search.