Alanna Gallagher Update: Authorities in Texas narrow focus in search for killer of 6-year-old found under tarp
(CBS) SAGINAW, Texas - Police in Saginaw, Texas focused on two neighborhoods Monday in a search for clues in the death of 6-year-old Alanna Gallagher, CBS DFW reports.
Authorities say they are searching for more tips in the case and have been questioning drivers in the area as well as searching vehicles.
"We are talking to neighbors, talking to anyone passing through--visitors--anybody to get more information," Saginaw Police Officer Damon Ing told the station. "Nothing prompted this. It's just the next step in the investigation."
Alanna's body was found last week in the middle of a Saginaw road, naked and wrapped in a tarp. Since the startling discovery, investigators with the District Attorney's have been canvassing the neighborhood where she lived and where her body was found.
Although police have not released a cause of death, they say the case is being investigated as a homicide, according to the station. Furthermore, it has not been released whether Alanna was the victim of a sexual assault. However, authorities have reportedly spoken with a majority of the registered sex offenders in the area.
According to the station, police say they are confident this is an isolated case and family members are not considered suspects.
Jamie Moreno, who lives near where Alanna's body was found, told the station he was questioned by police about his whereabouts during specific times. Moreno reportedly spent several minutes talking to investigators and said he welcomed the extra attention on the case.
Meanwhile, a memorial lining the street where the 6-year-old's body was found continues to grow.
Karl Gallagher, Alanna's father, posted a message on Facebook thanking people for their support and prayers.
"The State Guard, our church (Calvary Lutheran), and our neighbors are taking good care of us with food and such. The Saginaw Police, FBI, and many other investigators have been very professional and dedicated. The news media have been polite and respectful of our privacy. The sympathy and support from the community far and near has been amazing," the post read.
"I know everyone else who's met Alanna misses her. I wish more people could have had the chance to meet her. She took such joy in everyone she met. She would have given hugs to the whole world if she could. I am thankful for the time we had with her and the happy life we could give her," the post continued.
A funeral for Alanna is scheduled to take place Thursday in Richland Hills, Texas.