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Posted: October 22, 2010

Reward in Hickory girl's disappearance up to $4,000

Images of Zahra Baker

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NEWTON, N.C. — Crime Stoppers groups have combined to offer a reward of up to $4,000 for information about the disappearance of a Hickory girl reported missing from her home Oct. 9.

After Zahra Baker's father reported her missing, it was determined that the 10-year-old was last seen by someone other than her family on Sept. 25.

Hickory police and agents with the state and federal bureaus of investigation searched a landfill in Caldwell County this week for a mattress that belonged to the girl.

Hickory Police Chief Tom Adkins said investigators knew the mattress had been discarded before Zahra was reported missing, and they hoped to use any evidence it might hold to confirm interviews, reinforce the timeline of her disappearance and gather DNA.

Zahra's stepmother, who was arrested on a charge of obstruction of justice Oct. 10, was being held on $65,000 after prosecutors said she was a flight risk.

Web Editor: Jodi Leese Glusco

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9 Comments

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Latest Comments

You and me both, JUNCYARD. I wouldn't need 5 minutes...

Go Figure
October 27, 2010 4:06 p.m.

Don't think the reward money will make a difference - the only ones who know anything are the step-mother and father and any information they have would implicating themselves. Maybe the money can be used to help Zahra's mother come from Australia for the trial. So very sad!

2thec
October 22, 2010 6:42 p.m.

Such a sad commentary that we need to offer reward money for people to step up and do the right thing. Why would anyone withhold evidence in such a horrific crime? RIP Zahra, my heart is breaking for you.

larterl
October 22, 2010 5:53 p.m.

So sad.

sabol100
October 22, 2010 5:52 p.m.

This is such a horrible story. Wish I had 5 minutes with her stepmom and father.....

This whole thing is just heartbreaking.