Family Asks Public For Help In Finding NIH Researcher

GAITHERSBURG, Md (WJZ)-- The search for a missing NIH researcher from Maryland expanded into Pennsylvania and West Virginia.

Mary Bubala reports.

Martin Rogers was last seen leaving for work in mid-August. His family is concerned he's suffering from an illness that leaves him confused and disoriented.

They call themselves Team Rogers -- more than 100 researchers pounding the pavement putting up new flyers and signs.

Fifty four-year-old Martin John Rogers, an NIH scientist, was last seen leaving his Gaithersburg home heading to work on Aug. 21. His family and friends believe he's suffering from an amnesia-like illness.

"He may be confused. He might not know where he is, disheveled, lost his bearings," said searcher Amanda Karst.

Police have gotten tips of possible sightings along the C&O trail but they are also looking beyond this area.

The new signs are emphasizing his car, a blue 2001 Audi A4, with Maryland license plate 1BF6739.

At the command center, organizers are mapping out the search area. Some 200 miles north into Western Maryland and West Virginia. The day Roger disappeared he briefly checked himself into a hotel near Cumberland, Md.

"He was not himself he looked panicked, drenched in sweat, trembling, clearly something was wrong," said Kelly Rogers, his wife.

Now they are focused on stepping up their search and they believe finding his car is key.

"Anyone who's watching, we need my husband home. Please help us get him home by keeping an eye out for that car," Kelly Rogers said.

Police are asking motorcycle clubs and truckers to be on the lookout for Roger's car.

Roger's cellphone has not been used and the only activity on his credit card was when he checked into the hotel for a few hours the day after he disappeared.

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