WEXFORD COUNTY, Mich. – A significant community-driven search took place on Friday in Cadillac as volunteers joined forces to search for Rebecca Kay Park, who has been missing since November 3.
Gathering early in the morning, local residents converged at the Meijer store, selected for its central location and the capacity to organize the large community turnout effectively. The volunteers checked in at 10 a.m. and promptly headed to the search area located at West 26 Road and South 21 1/2 Road, an area that organizers deemed necessary for another thorough examination.
Jodi Lewis, one of the search organizers, expressed her heartfelt appreciation for the strong community solidarity, stating, “This is awesome. We have a great community and it’s great to see a community come together when somebody is in trouble and needs help.” As a mother and grandmother, Lewis emphasized the importance of compassion, highlighting how deeply the plight of missing individuals resonates with the community.
The searchers formed a close-knit line, ensuring thorough coverage of the designated area. Off-road vehicles and search dogs were deployed to enhance the search efforts, allowing teams to cover more ground in the challenging wooded terrain. Additionally, the Clandestine Investigative Authority, a professional search organization from Clare County, lent their expertise and assistance in the search mission.
Calob Kozlowski, a member of the investigative group and a former foster child himself, shared his personal connection to Rebecca’s situation. “I know what it’s like to find a family that actually cares for you,” he reflected. “And to have that person ripped from you, it really tears up my heart. I want to bring closure to her and her family.”
Although the Wexford County Sheriff’s Office did not participate in Friday’s search, they reported that they have previously conducted a comprehensive search in the areas where Rebecca was last known to be.
The determination and teamwork demonstrated by the volunteers emphasize the hope that continues to fuel the ongoing search efforts. Organizers mentioned that additional searches may be organized depending on the outcomes of Friday’s efforts.
Residents with any information regarding Rebecca Kay Park are encouraged to reach out to the Wexford County Sheriff’s Office. The collective spirit displayed during this search effort serves as a testament to the community’s commitment to supporting one another in challenging times.