Woman Turns To Social Networking To Search For Missing Fiance
RADNOR, Pa. (CBS) -- Authorities are investigating a mysterious disappearance on the Mainline.
A woman's fiancé is missing, and she's turning to social networking to find him.
"I just hope he's ok. I just hope he's ok. He left without anything. It's almost like he was in a state of sleep-walking," Roxana Merat said.
Merat's fiancé, Gerald Christopher, who goes by "Chris", disappeared from his Radnor home. The 45-year-old personal trainer hasn't been seen or heard from since June 1st.
"It's the saddest experience of my life, but it's also the most mind-blowing experience just because of what's happening with everybody that's looking for him," Merat added.
Merat is one of many who turned to Facebook and other social networking websites to reach out to as many supporters as possible in their efforts to search for a missing person. Locally and nationally, more and more families with missing loved ones, including that of Indiana University student Lauren Spierer, are banking on the power of social media.
Just this week, Philadelphia Police announced the arrest of four people in an Old City beating case. Authorities credit the thousands of hits the surveillance video of the incident generated online.
Lt. Ray Evers, with the Philadelphia Police Department, explained, "With the media's help, the public watching YouTube and our webpage, they can actually get involved in solving crimes."
Watch the video...
Merat is hoping the online community of supporters continues to rally, seeing their encouraging words and actions is what's keeping her hope alive.
"I want to thank everybody. Just big thanks to everybody, and I want to tell my love if he's watching me, that I love him very much," Merat said.
Radnor police say they are investigating. They say help from the public is always welcome and ask anyone with information about Christopher's whereabouts to continue to call in tips to 610-688-0503.
Christopher is described as a black male, about 6'1" tall, with a muscular build and a "tribal tattoo" on his right bicep.
Visit the "Help Find Chris" Facebook page here.
Reported by Elizabeth Hur, CBS3
