Urgent Appeal: Wisconsin Teen Sophia Franklin Missing with Alleged Abductor Gary Day, Community Demands Answers

BEAVER DAM, Wis. (WTVO) — Sixteen-year-old Sophia Franklin, a pregnant teenager who has been missing for over a month, remains the subject of an ongoing AMBER Alert. Authorities and her family continue to search for answers as concerns grow over her safety.

Timeline of Sophia’s Disappearance

According to the Illinois State Police, Franklin was last seen in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, at 7:48 a.m. on Monday, February 3rd. She has not been heard from since, and authorities believe she may be in danger.

Sophia is described as a white female with brown hair and blue eyes. She is currently four months pregnant.

Police have identified 40-year-old Gary Day, the father of Sophia’s unborn child, as the person suspected of taking her. Day, a resident of Arkansas, is believed to be traveling with her in a black 2014 Buick LaCrosse. The car has Pennsylvania license plate number KGW 5186 but is also registered in Arkansas with the plate number BBR 20L.

How Did This Happen?

Sophia’s family revealed that she met Day online in April 2024. Their virtual connection eventually turned into a real-world relationship, leading to troubling consequences.

In July 2024, Day reportedly took Sophia to Arkansas without her parents’ knowledge or consent. When authorities in Arkansas conducted a routine probation check at Day’s residence, they discovered the teenager inside his home. At that time, she was returned to Wisconsin.

Now, months later, she has disappeared once again, and authorities fear that Day has taken her across state lines.

AMBER Alert Expands Across Multiple States

Initially issued in Wisconsin, the AMBER Alert has now been expanded to Illinois, Arkansas, and Missouri as law enforcement officials try to track down the missing teen and her suspected abductor.

Authorities urge the public to remain vigilant. Anyone who has seen Sophia Franklin or Gary Day, or who has information on their whereabouts, is encouraged to contact law enforcement immediately.

Who is Gary Day?

Gary Day, 40, has a troubling history. While details about his past remain somewhat unclear, authorities have confirmed that he was already under probation when he took Sophia to Arkansas last year. His interactions with a minor and his alleged involvement in this abduction raise serious concerns about his intentions and possible criminal behavior.

Law enforcement officials are investigating whether he violated any laws by taking Sophia across state lines again, as well as whether additional charges could be filed against him.

Family Desperate for Answers

Sophia’s family is heartbroken and desperate for her safe return. They describe the situation as a nightmare and are pleading for anyone with information to come forward.

“Sophia is just 16 years old. She’s pregnant. She needs to be safe, and she needs to be home with her family,” said a relative in a public statement.

Her parents have also expressed deep concern about her well-being, especially given her pregnancy. They worry that she may not be receiving proper medical care and that she could be in a dangerous or abusive situation.

Legal Ramifications of the Case

The case raises several legal questions, particularly surrounding Gary Day’s actions and the potential charges he could face.

Transporting a minor across state lines without parental consent can carry serious legal consequences. If Day is found to have knowingly taken Sophia against her family’s wishes or engaged in any inappropriate activities with her, he could face charges related to kidnapping, child endangerment, and violating probation.

Authorities have not yet confirmed whether an arrest warrant has been issued for Day, but they continue to urge the public to remain alert.

Social Media Efforts and Public Support

In today’s digital world, cases like Sophia’s often gain widespread attention through social media. The hashtag #FindSophiaFranklin has begun circulating online, with people across the country sharing her photo and details in an effort to help locate her.

Missing persons advocacy groups have also joined the effort, amplifying the search by spreading awareness across multiple platforms. Some experts believe that social media plays a crucial role in solving cases like these, as a single sighting or piece of information shared online can lead to major breakthroughs.

How You Can Help

If you have any information regarding Sophia Franklin’s whereabouts, authorities urge you to take action:

• Call 911 immediately if you see her or Gary Day.
• Contact the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children at 1-800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678).
• Reach out to your local law enforcement agency.
• Share Sophia’s missing person alerts on social media to increase awareness.

What Happens Next?

As the investigation continues, police and Sophia’s loved ones remain hopeful for a positive outcome. Authorities will continue following leads, tracking down possible sightings, and working to ensure her safe return.

Every moment counts in missing persons cases, and the public’s help could make all the difference in bringing Sophia Franklin home.

Disclaimer – Our editorial team has thoroughly fact-checked this article to ensure its accuracy and eliminate any potential misinformation. We are dedicated to upholding the highest standards of integrity in our content.