It’s the most terrifying scenario that could occur. A pregnant mother of three mysteriously vanished without a trace in Indiana over three months ago, leaving her family with unanswered questions and concerns about her fate.
Emma Baum, 25, was just weeks from giving birth when she went missing on October 10 in Gary, Indiana. Despite tireless searches and an ongoing investigation, her whereabouts are unknown.
Her family last saw her at her boyfriend’s house, where she was dropped off that day. They are now speaking out, desperate to keep the search going, and urging anyone with information to come forward.
Vanished Without a Trace
Baum’s family became concerned when days passed without communication. They initially contacted friends, hoping for some news, but no one had seen or heard from her. The family eventually filed a missing persons report with the Gary Police Department on October 28.
Baum’s lack of communication was unusual, according to her family. Despite her occasional absences, she always tried to stay in touch, especially given her devotion to her three children.
Efforts to locate her quickly increased. Officers and search dogs combed homes, vehicles, and surrounding areas. The Lake County Sheriff’s Department joined the hunt, providing additional resources.
Social Media Spurs Search Efforts
Emma’s sister, Hailey Baum-Waddell, has been instrumental in gathering support.
A social media post she shared went viral, attracting hundreds of volunteers ready to help with searches.
Family members have coordinated these efforts, including consulting with experienced search groups.
Troubling Circumstances
There are still concerns about Baum’s boyfriend. Her family suspects he knows more than he admits, though no charges have been filed in connection with her disappearance.
Police confirmed that he was briefly detained on unrelated charges, but has since been released pending a court appearance.
To add to the mystery, Baum did not have a working phone when she went missing. Her family revealed that she had intended to go to a phone store with her boyfriend to fix the problem, but that never happened.
Family members have also emphasized her strong bond with her children, particularly her oldest son, saying it would be unthinkable for her to miss significant holidays such as Thanksgiving or Christmas.
Plea for Information
Authorities are continuing their investigation and have interviewed individuals involved in the case. Meanwhile, the family is urging anyone who may know something to come forward.
Baum is described as 5 feet, 3 inches tall, weighing approximately 136 pounds, with brown hair, brown eyes, and several tattoos. She is well-known for her vibrant personality and colorful wigs.
Her family claims that this is about not only finding Emma, but also her unborn child. They are holding out hope for a safe return, refusing to succumb to deeper fears.
If you have any information about Emma Baum’s disappearance, please contact the Gary Police Department at (219) 881-1209.
