BARRON, WI (WSAU) -- Community fundraisers aimed at benefiting Jayme Closs have raised nearly $15,000 in the three weeks since the 13-year-old from Barron went missing following a home invasion and double homicide at her family's home.
Residents in Barron County began selling "Find Jayme Closs" bracelets at businesses around Barron, and a benefit account has been opened at Sterling Bank locations from Barron to Rice Lake.
A local artist has also been selling lanterns with a "Find Jayme" design, saying they are meant to light the missing girl's way home.
Officials with the Barron County Sheriff's office say they have investigated nearly 2,000 tips in the weeks since Closs' parents were shot in their home and the girl went missing, none have led to a confirmed sighting. A claim that she was seen at a gas station in South Florida was downplayed by officials in the days after her disappearance and never confirmed.
Officials are also looking for information regarding two vehicles of interest in the case, including a 2004-2010 Black Acura MDX or a 2006-2010 Black Ford Edge. The other is believed to be 2008-2014 Red/Orange Dodge Challenger.
Those organizing the fundraisers say the money is intended for Jayme in the event that she is returned safely. In the event that she isn't, it will be given to charity.
Since her disappearance, several organized searches have been conducted near the family home to look for any possible shread of evidence in the case, and so far nothing has been found. A reward for information leading to her safe return began at $25,000 from the FBI, the Jennie-O Turkey Store in Barron where here parents worked added another $25,000 to that fund last week.
Anyone with information on Closs' location is encouraged to call a dedicated tip line at 1-855-744-3879. Tips may also be e-mailed to [email protected].
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