Pregnant Wisconsin Teen Found Safe After Months-Long Search
The suspect (left), Gary F. Day, and 16-year-old Sophia Franklin (right)
Authorities in Wisconsin issued an AMBER Alert for 16-year-old Sophia Franklin, last seen at her home in Beaver Dam on Sunday night.
Sophia is three-months pregnant and police believe she’s with 40-year-old Gary F. Day, reportedly the father of her unborn child.
The black 2014 Buick LaCrosse, seen with Arkansas plates, before authorites say suspect Gary Day switched them to Pennsylvania plates KGW5186
A no-contact order is in place between Day and Sophia and authorities are still working to find them as of Tuesday evening.
Day was last seen at Sophia’s home Monday morning. Investigators say the two may be traveling in a black 2014 Buick LaCrosse with Arkansas license plate BBR-20L. But authorities say Day is believed to have switched the plates on the vehicle. It was last seen on surveillance footage Monday morning with Pennsylvania plate KGW5186.
An arrest warrant was issued for Day, who now faces two charges of abduction of a child and two charges of child enticement-cause mental/bodily harm.
Authorities have not disclosed any specific locations they believe Day may be headed toward, but they’re urging the public to be on the lookout for the vehicle. Police say anyone who sees them should not approach but immediately contact law enforcement.
Sophia Franklin:
Age: 16
Sex: Female
Race: White
Height: 5’9”
Weight: 186 lbs.
Hair Color: Brown
Eye Color: Blue
Gary Day:
Age: 40
Sex: Male
Race: White
Height: 5’7”
Weight: 165 lbs.
Hair Color: Blonde
Eye Color: Green
Sophia’s disappearance has raised concerns due to her age and pregnancy, with law enforcement emphasizing the urgency of locating her safely. The no-contact order between Day and Sophia suggests previous legal actions, but details about the order’s origin have not been released. Officials are working with multiple agencies to track potential leads and are asking the public to remain vigilant as the investigation continues.
UPDATE | Friday, April 4, 2025
WBAY-TV reports that Sophia Franklin is now safe after law enforcement found her and Day near Omaha, Neb., riding in a semi with another man. Once Sarpy County deputies confirmed their identities, Day was taken into custody. Franklin was taken to a hospital, where she and her unborn baby were both confirmed to be in good health. She was then taken to a secure facility until she can be reunited with family.
Day is being held in the Sarpy County Jail on five charges: contributing to delinquency of a child, false reporting and three counts of being a fugitive from justice. He’s expected to face additional charges in Nebraska, Arkansas and Wisconsin.
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