Authorities in Maryland and Aruba are continuing to search for evidence that the traveling companion of a Frederick woman missing on the Caribbean island was involved in the woman’s disappearance.
Robyn Gardner, 35, was last seen in Aruba on Aug. 2. Prosecutors there have detained her vacation partner, 50-year-old Gary V. Giordano, of Gaithersburg, and say he is a suspect in her disappearance.
FBI agents searched Giordano’s home late Friday and were seen taking boxes from the home. Agent Phil Celestini said at a news conference that the bureau was executing a search warrant but declined to comment further.
Aruban Solicitor General Taco Stein said in a phone interview earlier this week that that Aruban authorities were seeking the FBI’s help with searches, interviews and obtaining records in Maryland.
Giordano has claimed through his attorney that Gardner disappeared at sea while the two were snorkling.
In Aruba, officials first canvassed the area where she reportedly went missing with helicopters, planes, boats, divers and shore search teams, Stein said.
Authorities then turned to searching an abandoned phosphate mine in the area. Searchers found a pink shirt and black sandals, but Stein told the Associated Press on Saturday that the items did not belong to Gardner.
Giordano remains in custody in Aruba. He is expected to have another court hearing Monday, in which a judge will decide whether there is enough evidence for him to remain in custody.
