Re: your first statement, I agree that that is what happens in many cases. But, if that were the case here, I think there would have been more knowledge about other experiences. Usually when it gets to the point where you would leave, as in leave your life behind, others are aware that you have been in an abusive relationship, police have been called before, there may or may not even be a restraining order (not that they're very effective, I'm well aware). But, it seems as if her father was hearing that just then- maybe from roommate(?). It may have been a statement made in passing. Because if she really took that seriously, there would have been more known about it, no? And I think LE would have been looking so much into that connection we may not have even heard about OMM to the extent that we have. I don't know...just thinking out loud.
Regarding your second statement...hmmmm. That is interesting. But then why would LE be so sure she drove her car to PTL? Where would that fit in? And again I don't think so much attention would still be focused on OMM.