I tend to think they had time to refill their gas before anyone even noticed they were missing, but I acknowledge--absent of any information--the theory that they're closer to home is as valid as any. I added it to the list.
From my former post: While, yes, theoretically they could be "anywhere," it would be human nature to go somewhere where Tad had been previously and understood the lay of the land.
So far, people have offered these connections, but I bet we can discover more:
The immediate radius surrounding Columbia, based on how far they could get on one tank of gas without refilling.
See pic from another sleuther:
Mexico or Central America - He's done previous medical volunteer work in Panama and has ties to churches who have done trips to other CA countries (we don't yet know if Tad went on any of his churches' mission trips).
New Orleans - site of Tad's volunteer work in helping Hurricane Katrina victims
Knoxville - Relief areas post fire
Orange Beach, FL - apparent site of Tad's previous travels
Canada - A lesser # of people have suggested they went for the Canadian border
Remote NC - Some have suggested he may have went north from Decatur
As you're reading, would you let me know if you run across any info about Tad or Elizabeth's previous travels? Where did they go on family vacations? On school trips? On church trips? Where do they mention they have family? Where did Tad travel during his childhood? Where did they hunt or know someone with a cabin?
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