She Left The House To Run Some Errands But Never Showed Up To Work Later That Day, And Now Authorities Are Asking Everyone In Her Town To Check Old Wells, Windmill Bases, And Sinkholes

Madeline’s loved ones worked to get into contact with her. But, on the evening of March 31, they ultimately contacted the Winona Police Department to file a missing person’s report.

The police found no evidence suggesting that Madeline had left home either in another vehicle or on foot. Additionally, most of her personal belongings had been left at home– including her cell phone, wallet, identification, and even the jacket she had been wearing that morning.

Yet, a blue van matching Madeline and Adam’s vehicle was spotted on surveillance camera footage between 10:00 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. traveling on Highway 43 and County Road 12 as well as in eastern Fillmore counties.

So, authorities have asked residents of both Winona and eastern Fillmore to review their surveillance footage for any sightings of a blue van traveling along Highway 43 anytime between 8:00 a.m. on March 31, 2023, and 4:00 p.m. on April 1.

On April 26, the Winona Police Department also published a press release asking for renewed help in the search for Madeline.

Authorities have asked that property owners report any old wells, homesteads, windmills, or windmill bases from before 1925, as well as any sinkholes that are accessible by car.

“This information is not included in available records and could lead to new searches. We are asking people with old wells, homesteads, windmills, or sinkholes on their property to report them to search@co.winona.mn.us,” the press release states.

Additionally, authorities announced that they are partnering with Madeline’s family and requesting that all residents in Winona, Fillmore, and Houston counties display a blue checkmark in a visible property location if they consent to property searches.

According to the release, volunteer search parties will only be searching properties for any signs of Madeline, indicators of disturbances, or something out of the ordinary.

If residents consent to a property search, volunteers will not enter any homes or structures and will follow all property postings. Before embarking on any search, volunteers will also confirm that it is okay with the property owner.

“Once they have searched, volunteers will tie a blue ribbon around a mailbox or post, letting others know the property has been checked. If you have already searched your property, you can also tie a blue ribbon outside to let others know,” the press release explained.