The FBI has joined the search for a missing Indiana child after the girl’s parents and the man she was last with have been taken into custody.
As previously reported, authorities issued a Silver Alert earlier this week for 11-month-old Mercedes Lain. According to the latest update from 16 News Now, Mercedes was initially reported missing from Plymouth, Indiana, on Thursday but was seen again between Thursday and Sunday in Marshall County, Starke County and St. Joseph County. Her father filed a missing persons report on Sunday. It is unclear who reported the child missing on Thursday.
Justin Lee Miller, the man said to be with Mercedes at the time the Silver Alert was issued is a family friend who was supposed to be babysitting the child. He and his vehicle were found on Monday, but Mercedes remains missing. Miller, 37, and both Mercedes’ parents, Kenneth Lain and Tiffany Coburn, have been taken into custody. All three are charged with neglect of a dependent.
It is unclear if Miller is believed to have given the child to someone else. Police reportedly believe Mercedes is in Marshall County, but they appear to have few clues and leads at this time but the Silver Alert indicates the child could be in extreme danger.
Mercedes reportedly has blond hair and brown eyes. She is about 2 feet tall and weighs 19 pounds. When last seen, she was wearing a white onesie with pink strip. according to 16 News Now.
Michiana Crime Stoppers has reportedly offered a reward of up to $1,000 for anyone who has information. Those who believe they may know something are urged to contact the Plymouth Police Department at 574-936-2126 or call 911.