SHELBYVILLE, Tenn. - Nine weeks after he disappeared without a trace, Bobby Smelcer's family is still desperate for answers.
The 52-year-old went missing from his Shelbyville home November 21, 2010, and now police suspect foul play. That was the last time anyone saw Bobby Smelcer. That day he worked at a mechanic shop, went grocery shopping and ate a meal. But what happened after is a mystery.
Loved ones planned a candlelight vigil earlier this month, but were forced to scrap the idea given the bad, winter weather.
"I keep his picture on my computer all the time," said Karen Harris, the missing man's older sister. Harris also updated NewsChannel 5 on the search for her brother: a reward that, all told, totals between 4- and $5,000.
"I lay in bed every night and think about my Dad. Is he warm? Is he safe? Is he tired and doesn't have anywhere to lie his head down?" his daughter Jennifer Smelcer said.
Police scoured Smelcer's home looking for clues and found several small drops of blood, along with Smelcer's keys, wallet and cell phone. Investigators said at one time he had a history with drugs, but they're not sure if or how that fits into this puzzle.
Over the past few weeks, relatives handed out missing person fliers and posted them at local grocery stores. But so far, no leads have come in.
"We're holding out hope that he's alive but the more time that passes we are afraid that something has happened to him," Shelbyville Police Detective Sgt. Brian Crews said.
Bobby has 7 sisters and brothers, two daughters and several grandchildren. All of them are desperate for answers.
Crime Stoppers is offering a cash reward for information leading to an arrest. Concerned citizens also added several more thousand dollars to the pot.
Call Shelbyville Police if you have any information. Their number is 931-684-5811.
Bobby Smelcer
