Calling Around Didn’t Help
In a whirlwind of worry, Jim dialed the number of several acquaintances, including the enigmatic Russell Ross. Upon hearing the distressing news of Jonelle’s disappearance, Russell roused his sleeping daughter, Deana, from her dreams, hoping she might hold a clue to her friend’s whereabouts. But alas, she was as clueless as they. Jim’s next call was to their trusted family pastor, the reassuring Jim Christy, who wisely advised him to involve the local police in their search.
In the peaceful town of Greeley, vanishing children were unheard of, so the sudden disappearance of Jonelle Matthews sent shockwaves through the local law enforcement. The officers, their senses heightened, sprung into action, scouring the Matthews’ residence and neighboring streets with a hawk’s eye. Jennifer (Matthews) Mogensen vividly recalls the scene: “My room transformed into a crime scene, with officers meticulously dusting the walls for fingerprints, hunting for any hint of foul play.” Despite her sister’s unsettling disappearance, Jennifer attended school the next day. By then, the news had infiltrated the classrooms, and Jonelle’s vanishing act was the talk of the town.