Wisconsin authorities have announced a significant development in the case of missing 3-year-old Elijah Vue, as a crucial clue linked to the toddler has been uncovered, intensifying efforts to locate him.
The discovery of a red and white plaid blanket, believed to belong to Elijah, has prompted a renewed focus on the investigation by Two Rivers police.
Discovery of Key Evidence: Blanket Clue Found
A month after 3-year-old Elijah Vue disappeared from an apartment in Two Rivers, Wisconsin, a significant discovery has been made: a blanket believed to be Elijah's has been found.
The red and white plaid blanket, a key focus of the search for clues about his whereabouts, was located on Goodwin Road, approximately 3.7 miles from where Elijah was last seen.
Two Rivers Police Department Chief Ben Meinnert confirmed the connection, stating that the blanket indeed belonged to Elijah. This development has intensified the investigation into Elijah's disappearance.
Elijah's mother, Katrina Baur, 31, and Jesse Vang, 39, the man caring for Elijah when he vanished, have been charged with child neglect.
Baur faces charges related to neglecting a child and obstructing an officer, while Vang has been charged with party-to-a-crime child neglect. Baur reportedly left Elijah with Vang on Feb. 12, intending to pick him up on Feb. 23, citing a desire to teach him "to be a man."
Vang called the police on Feb. 20 to report Elijah missing, claiming he had fallen asleep and woke to find the child gone.
Both suspects deny involvement in the disappearance. Manitowoc County District Attorney Jacalyn LaBre stated during a February hearing that Baur sent Elijah to the residence for disciplinary reasons for over a week, aware of the conditions and care provided.
Police have appealed to the public for assistance in their search, urging individuals to thoroughly check both urban and rural areas, including bodies of water, for any evidence related to Elijah's disappearance.
The search efforts have covered wetlands, farmland, the West Twin River, and a farm waste container, reflecting the comprehensive approach taken by law enforcement to find Elijah and gather relevant evidence.
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Community Response and Ongoing Search
The discovery of the blanket has galvanized the community, leading to an increase in the reward for information about Elijah's whereabouts, now totaling $40,000.
Police have urged the public to assist in the search by thoroughly checking urban and rural areas for any potential clues or evidence.
Authorities have also been analyzing dashcam and security camera footage, particularly focusing on a beige 1997 Nissan Altima with Wisconsin plates and a registration starting with A, which is believed to be connected to the case.
The search has spanned various terrains and locations around Two Rivers as investigators work tirelessly to find Elijah and unravel the circumstances of his disappearance.
The discovery of the blanket has brought renewed hope to the search efforts, highlighting the determination of law enforcement and the community to find answers and ensure justice for Elijah Vue.
