Police Interview Person Of Interest In Gas Station Abduction
NORTON SHORES (WWJ) - Police in western Michigan say they have interviewed a man in connection with the disappearance a 25-year-old gas station night clerk.
A man was questioned by Norton Shores Police Wednesday night after being pulled over in a silver mini-van that fit the description of the vehicle seen when Jessica Heeringa vanished during her shift at a gas station Friday night. That person has not been charged.
Authorities say they have interviewed and cleared at least four other persons of interest. The say several relatives and friends have also been ruled out as suspects.
The interview was the latest development in search for the missing woman. The gas station didn't have security cameras, which police say have slowed their investigation. Police say there were no signs of a struggle or robbery, and they found Heeringa's purse and belongings in the station. The case is being treated as an abduction.
Police have released two videos that may help them fill in the timeline of events the night Herringa vanished. Both videos show a silver or gray Chrysler minivan. A 911 call that was made from a customer at the gas station after Heeringa disappeared was also released.
On Tuesday, police released a sketch of a man thought to be the driver of a minivan captured on surveillance cameras from nearby businesses that police believe is central to the case. The man is described as in his 30s or 40s, 6-feet-tall, medium to heavy build with light brown or sandy blond wavy hair parted in the middle.
Exxon Mobil has donated $15,000 to an award fund seeking tips on Heeringa's disappearance.
Anyone who may information is asked to contact Silent Observer at 231-72-CRIME or call 911.
