Police Update
Update: The Search for Michael Joseph Vaughan.
The search continues for Michael Joseph Vaughan, now age 6. We will not stop searching and investigating his abduction until we find Michael and bring those involved to justice.
Through the course of our investigation, we received credible information that the remains of Michael Vaughan could be found in the backyard of 1102 Redwing Street in Fruitland. As a result, the Fruitland Police Department was granted a search warrant to for the residence along with to include the front and back yards. The search warrant was served on Friday, November 11, in the late evening. Upon entry, officers encountered Sarah Wondra 35, one of the known occupants of the home. Fruitland Police arrested Sarah Wondra 35, as there is probable cause to believe that she had knowledge of Michael’s death and failed to report the death to law enforcement.
The following day, the Fruitland Police Department joined by the Idaho State Police, Idaho Mountain Search and Rescue, Fruitland Fire Department, and the Fruitland Public Works Department, began a very methodical excavation of the back yard of Wondra’s home. Ground conditions have not impeded the excavation. The Idaho Mountain Search and Rescue deployed specialty K-9s during the excavation.
At this stage in the investigation it is important that nothing is missed, so law enforcement will and continue to excavate and search the property. It’s a slow process, but we will continue until we’re confident that the search of the property is complete. Chief JD Huff said “We are encouraged and remain hopeful that our investigation will lead us to the truth”. It is our belief that there are others who have knowledge of the abduction and death of Michael Vaughan. This investigation is ongoing.
To date, the Fruitland Police Department has received over 1500 tips and leads. We have received many new leads since this portion of the investigation began on Friday. We would ask for your patience as we continue to work through this. We would also ask that the Vaughan family’s privacy be respected. We will post updates as information can be shared. If someone has or learns of information that can help find Michael, we want that information now.
Tips can be sent to
findmichael@fruitland.org or to Crime Stoppers,
343COPS.com. Tips may remain anonymous.
Please keep Michael in your prayers.