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Official search for missing mom could end Tues.

Posted at 2:35 PM, May 07, 2016
and last updated 2016-05-09 20:26:40-04

The ground search by the Martin County Sheriff's Office for the Hobe Sound mother who has been missing for almost two weeks will be suspended Tuesday unless further information becomes available.

On Monday students at Keiser University offered to help in the search for Tricia Todd.

Courtney Mezzancello was one of about 30 students who took part in a massive grid search. Volunteer crime scene investigators from Vero Beach and Ft. Pierce also showed up.

“In a straight line within sight of each other walking systematically and thoroughly thru that section of their grid,” said Deputy Matthew Fritchie with the Martin County Sheriff’s Office.

Promising crime scene investigators are eager for answers. They searched areas Tricia Todd may have frequented and spots close to her home.

“…just looking for the little things. anything out of place. or anything that could help bring closure to the family,” said Matthew Duerr, a student.

This grid search was hands-on experience.

“We’ve taken them to the ME’s (Medical Examiner) office for autopsies, for other things, but not a real life crime scene,” said Patrick Nicolello, an instructor at Keiser University. “This just takes it to another level.”

Students said it was a chance to make an impact.

“Sometimes you don’t know what happens and you want to know,” said Mezzancello. “You want that closure, and I’m here to try to find that for them.”

Todd was reported missing almost two weeks ago when she didn't pick up her daughter.

The last-known picture of her was captured on a surveillance camera at a local Publix grocery store. There is still no evidence of a crime or abduction.