Missing woman's father issues public appeal

BLAIRSVILLE - Meredith Emerson's father issued a public appeal Monday for the return of his daughter, who has been missing for almost a week.

Appearing at a news conference at the command post at Blood Mountain in Union County, Dave Emerson ask that people "search their minds to recall any evidence that could help bring our daughter home."

Authorities have changed the search for Emerson to a recovery effort, after telling family members over the weekend that they believe Emerson is dead.

In addition, Monday's search involves only law enforcement and trained searchers -- not volunteers and they have narrowed their search to a five-mile radius of Vogel State Park.

Union County Sheriff's Investigator Kimberly Verdone says the target area is being refocused based on new evidence, but she would not elaborate.

Authorities have charged 61-year-old Gary Hilton with kidnapping with bodily harm in Emerson's disappearance and now say he may be linked to as many as five murders. (See separate story).