5 years since the Joplin disappearance of Sarah Burton
Today marks the 5th year of Sarah Burton’s disappearance.
Since the investigation began the Joplin Police Department has followed up on 150 leads throughout the four-state area. Based on the investigation so far, we believe Sarah was last seen in the area of 10th and Rex Ave on July 16, 2018. She has been described as 5’07”, 160 pounds, with brown hair, and blue eyes.
The Joplin Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigations are offering a $7000 reward for information that may lead us to the location of Sarah. Below is a statement that the Burton family wrote and requested be disseminated.
“I believe the definition of an anniversary is to celebrate an event or mile marker. Sarah’s disappearance is no celebration of any kind. It has been 5 long years that have taken a huge impact on us, The Burton Family. Our Family will never be the same again. This situation is different, we don’t have any kind of closure. The thoughts that go through one’s mind when their daughter goes missing is unbelievable. You don’t know if she was yelling your name for help, or if you could have done something differently. You’re always wanting to turn back time. But there are no do-overs. We live in a small to medium size city, she should have been found or someone should have come forward. How could one keep this information inside them and function or sleep at night knowing a family is turned upside down. Sarah’s little boys, need their mom. What child doesn’t need their mother? Going to School, having your mom is so important. Our Family is only requesting ONE thing from someone or anyone, Please and I can’t express enough to give us CLOSURE. Information. Release this burden that’s on your shoulders. Help put this family back together again. God Bless.”
The Joplin Police Department said they are concerned for the safety and well-being of Sarah and ask anyone that has any information to contact them. If you have tips contact Detective Sergeant Luke Stahl at 417-623-3131 ext. 1885, JPD Dispatch at 417-623-3131 after hours, or 911 if Sarah is located.