Ocilla teacher still missing

October 27, 2005

Ocilla-- Flyers still decorate this small Irwin County town, where a vigil was recently held to pray for 30-year-old teacher Tara Grinstead and her family.

Yellow ribbons decorate Irwin County High School where Tara teaches 11th grade history, serving as a symbol for Tara's safe return home.

"I just want her back," says Bill Grinstead. Grinstead has not seen or heard from his daughter for five days. "We don't really know what's happened to her. All we know is that she has gone missing," he says.

Friends last saw Tara Saturday night at a beauty pageant in Fitzgerald. It wasn't until two days later that they became worried.

Though family friends and many at the school are upset about her disappearance, Ocilla Police Department Chief Billy Hancock does not suspect foul play.

Police say after investigating the house, they found no signs of forced entry. The only things missing were her keys and purse.

Tara's parents say they'll do everything they can to find their daughter.

If you have any information about Tara Grinstead's where abouts, please call 229-468-TIPS. A reward has been pledged for her return.

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