Police Searching for 16-Year-Old Sophia Franklin
The parents of 16-year-old Sophia Franklin, who has been missing from Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, are pleading for help in finding their daughter. Sophia was last seen at her home on February 2, 2025, and an Amber Alert has been in effect since February 4, 2025.
Authorities believe she is with 40-year-old Gary Day, the man suspected to be the father of her unborn child. Sophia is currently three months pregnant.
Sophia’s mother, Leah Franklin, expressed her heartbreak, stating,
“She is someone who is worth finding. And everyone is someone worth looking for.”
The family urges anyone with information to come forward and help bring Sophia home safely.
Details of the Disappearance
Last Known Location
- Sophia Franklin was last seen at her home in Beaver Dam on the night of February 2, 2025.
Suspect Information
- Gary Day, 40, from Arkansas, is believed to be with Sophia.
- He has a criminal record, including a probation sentence for child abuse.
- A no-contact order exists between Day and Sophia.
Vehicle Description
- They may be traveling in a 2014 black Buick LaCrosse.
- The car has been spotted with temporary Arkansas license plate BBR 20L and Pennsylvania plate KGW5186.
Law Enforcement Investigation and Public Involvement
The Beaver Dam Police Department has released surveillance footage showing Gary Day near Sophia’s home on February 3.
Due to concerns that they may be traveling through multiple states, the Amber Alert has been expanded to Missouri and Arkansas.
The U.S. Marshals Service is considering taking over the case to broaden the search efforts.
Leah Franklin, in a direct message to Gary Day, stated:
“You have to bring her home. She belongs here. She’s our child. She’s not a grown-up.”
The family emphasizes that Sophia is deeply loved and missed by her parents and six siblings.
How the Public Can Help
Report Any Information
- If you have any details about Sophia’s whereabouts, contact authorities immediately at 888-304-3936 or call 911.
Raise Awareness
- Share Sophia’s story on social media to help spread awareness.
- The more people know about her case, the greater the chance of finding her.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the current status of Sophia Franklin’s Amber Alert?
A: The Amber Alert remains active in Wisconsin, Missouri, and Arkansas as of March 1, 2025.
Q: Who is Gary Day, and what is his connection to Sophia?
A: Gary Day is a 40-year-old man from Arkansas, believed to be the father of Sophia’s unborn child. He has a criminal history, including probation for child abuse.
Q: How can I report information if I see Sophia?
A: If you have seen Sophia or have any information, call authorities at 888-304-3936 or dial 911 immediately.
Q: What actions are law enforcement agencies taking to locate Sophia?
A: Local police and the U.S. Marshals Service are actively investigating leads, reviewing surveillance footage, and expanding the Amber Alert to multiple states in an effort to broaden the search.
Q: What can I do if I don’t have any information?
A: Even if you don’t have direct information, sharing Sophia’s case on social media can help bring awareness and potentially lead to her safe return.
The Franklin family remains hopeful for Sophia’s safe return and thanks the community for their ongoing support.
Note: This article includes details available as of March 1, 2025. Please refer to official law enforcement sources for the latest updates.
