Family Searches For Missing Md. Woman

FREDERICK, Md. (AP) -- A Frederick family and authorities are looking for a woman who disappeared while running errands last week.

The Frederick County Sheriff's Office says Teresa Lentz, 49, left home around noon last Wednesday. John Lentz says he spoke to his wife that afternoon, but the mother of two hasn't been heard from since. Shawna Lentz found her mother's Ford Expedition that night with her cell phone and keys inside.

"It's very concerning. At this point, we are not saying it's foul play, but very suspicious," sheriff's spokeswoman Sgt. Jennifer Bailey said.

Investigators have begun processing forensic evidence from the vehicle. Items were missing from the SUV, but officials would not discuss what those items are. Investigators are also interviewing witnesses and examining bank and phone records.

"They're looking into everything," Bailey said. "We have numerous investigators working on the case. It is a priority for the office."

To cope, family and friends have gathered to distribute posters about the missing woman to local businesses.

"It helps. It helps everybody because people want to do something to help," said Janet Kendall, Lentz's sister-in-law. "We're really hoping people will be looking and talking."

The sheriff's office is asking anyone who saw Lentz or her SUV last Wednesday to call 301-600-3677. Tips are being used to create a timeline of her movements that day.

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