Investigators working to solve a nearly year-old abduction case near Waterloo are looking for a vehicle that was near a lake on the day two young cousins disappeared. Investigators are asking for the public’s help in finding a white, older-model sport utility vehicle – possibly a Chevy suburban or Ford Bronco – that was parked on Arbutus Avenue near Meyer’s Lake in Evansdale on July 13th.
That’s day Elizabeth Collins and Lyric Cook-Morrissey didn’t return home from a midday bike ride. Their bicycles and other personal belongings were found on a nature trail near Meyers Lake and Arbutus Avenue about two hours after the girls were reported missing. Their bodies were found December 5th in Bremer County, about 20 miles north of Evansdale.
In a news release issued Monday, Evansdale police say investigators have received witness information that the described vehicle was parked in the area. Investigators want to talk to the person or persons in the vehicle or to anyone who knows who may have frequented Meyers Lake in a vehicle similar to that described on the day the girls disappeared.
Investigators believe whoever was in the vehicle may have information about the abduction, but they stress the person or persons are not considered a suspect in the crime. The public is urged to call to call Evansdale police (319-232-6682) or Cedar Valley Crime Stoppers (1-855-300-TIPS) with any specific information they may have.
A $150,000 reward remains available for anyone who provides a tip that solves this case. Information can also be emailed to: ourmissingiowagirls@dps.state.ia.us.
By Elwin Huffman, KOEL-Oelwein/Waterloo