Over $1000 Collected For Reward In Missing Baby Case
LUDINGTON (WWJ) - The Ludington/Scottville Area Chamber of Commerce reports that a total of $1,215.00 has been donated as a reward in the case of Katherine Phillips, the four-month-old girl missing since June 29.
Anyone wishing to donate toward the Silent Observer may send checks or money orders to the Ludington/Scottville Chamber of Commerce, 5300 West US-10, Ludington, MI 49431. Be sure to include "Baby Katherine Reward Fund" on the memo line of your check.
Meantime, police and volunteers will conducted another search on Saturday, July 16 at 10:00 am. Volunteers are asked to meet at the Life EMS building on First St. Volunteers, 18 years or older, should wear brightly colored shirts, appropriate footwear and bring a walking stick to move aside vegetation during the search.
Katherine was last seen June 29, wearing a one piece outfit with a black and pink flower pattern. Police have since located the clothing, but not the girl.
Her mother, 19-year-old Ariel Courtland, said her daughter was in the car when Sean Phillips, who is thought to be the baby's father, drove off from her apartment, 80 miles northwest of Grand Rapids.
The baby was not with Phillips when he was arrested at his parent's house, a short time after an Amber Alert was issued for Katherine. He faces kidnapping and child enticement charges.
Courtland has said Phillips indicated to her Katherine is still alive, although he would not say more.
Investigators would still like to speak with anyone that saw Phillips during the hours of 1 pm - 4 pm on Wednesday, June 29th. He was reported to have been seen at the Wendy's Restaurant and near the Birch Lake Apartments during that time frame.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Mason-Oceana 911 at 231-869-5858. Persons wishing to provide information anonymously can call Silent Observer at 888-786-7274. Anonymous information can also be provided at www.lsotip.com or by texting "LSOTIP" and your tip to 274637.
