WTVM.com and WTVM News Leader 9, Columbus, GA | Search Continues For Columbus Father And Three Children

Search Continues For Columbus Father And Three Children

Mar. 6, 2008

COLUMBUS, Ga. (WTVM) -- It's day two of the search for a Columbus father, who disappeared with his three young children. Investigators say they've received several tips on Eddie Harrington's whereabouts, but they haven't been able to find him yet.

The description of Eddie Harrington's car has been plastered on signs from Georgia all the way to Indiana.

People passing through Columbus say they're already on the lookout for the Green Chevy Impala, that police believe Harrington is driving.

"I heard the first Amber Alert when I was in the Costco parking lot, and that's always alarming. Then driving on the freeway today, we've seen the Amber Alerts," said Shawn Bard, an Atlanta resident.

"I would look for it, I remembered it was a green Chevy," said Deborah Olechnowich, a Virginia resident.

Harrington disappeared from this home on Gardiner Drive, early Wednesday morning, with his twin one-year-old daughters, and three-year-old son.

Since the Amber Alert was issued, law enforcement officers have received several tips.

"There were possible sightings in Knoxville, Memphis, and Jackson and up towards northern Tennessee. But no one actually saw the tag number on the vehicle we're looking for, but they would call in with the description of the car, occupied by one or two people," said Lt. Mark Starling, from Columbus Police Dept.

The case has an added sense of urgency, because of a note police say Harrington left behind, that indicates he may be suicidal.

Still, police hope they can bring the children home safely. "We're always hopeful for the best outcome, and we have no reason to believe anything other at this time," said Lt. Starling.

We've learned more about Eddie Harrington's background. Since last November, he's been working for New Horizons here in Columbus, as a house parent, taking care of mentally challenged or mentally ill clients.

His employer says Harrington is a good worker who passed a background check.

Police are still on the lookout for his 2002 dark green Chevrolet Impala, with an Indiana state tag.

If you see Harrington or the car, you're asked to call 706-653-3231.