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.
Nominations being accepted for 2026 John Arnold Award for Rural Preservation
New track chairs make Indiana a national leader in accessibility at state parks
Special Olympics Indiana hosting 54th annual state basketball tournament
Indiana State Police Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force reporting progress
Thrive info session planned for March 26
BMV warns of scam, more deceptive messages
King looks to bring experience to Parke County Council
Colorado man arrested on Indiana resident for child solicitation, other charge
Zumwalt looks to carry Republican nod for Vermillion County Commissioner District 2
Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs, American Legion Department of Indiana sign landmark agreement
Brazil man arrested on rape, other charges
Getting to know the Centerville Bulldogs
GE Aerospace to make millions of dollars of investment in Terre Haute, Lafayette
Phelps looks to claim Vermillion County Commissioner District 2 seat
Rodney Atkins to perform at Putnam County Fairgrounds
Smith looks to punch ticket to Rockville Town Board seat
Safe Zones enforcement to resume on I-70 in Hancock Co., begin on I-65 in Jasper Co.
IDHS focuses on raising awareness during Severe Weather Preparedness Week, March 8-14
Parke Heritage to Martinsville, North Vermillion headed to Frankfort for boys regionals
Martin looks to bring experience to Parke County Commissioner District 2 Seat
