It wasn’t until February 10th – six days later – that they were reported missing. Bethany’s boyfriend was the last person besides Bowman to speak with them; they’d made Valentine’s Day plans the night before they disappeared.

Tina and Van had a difficult relationship. Tina’s sister was worried about Bethany’s safety because Van had a history as a sex offender (he later served time for molesting his daughter). Tina’s sister believed Tina was planning to leave Van, but doesn’t think she’d take Bethany and leave without contacting anyone. Tina was a newly-graduated cosmetologist with dreams of opening her own salon.

After they disappeared, there was no activity on Tina’s bank accounts, phone, or credit cards. Bethany’s father, Tina’s ex-husband, said Tina always contacted him if they argued. He found it unbelievable she’d disappear without a word.

Van was seen on the Connecticut River near his house early on February 4th, but searches found nothing. Police think foul play was involved and suspect Van, though he hasn’t been arrested. He refused to cooperate with the investigation and has since sold the house. The case remains unsolved.