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Search for kidnapped girl expands nationwide

Posted at 4:15 PM, May 11, 2016
and last updated 2016-05-11 17:27:26-04
The search is expanding across the country for a missing 9-year-old Tennessee girl, who investigators say was kidnapped from school by her uncle.
 
Carlie Trent disappeared one week ago, Wednesday.
 
Detectives with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation say Trent's uncle Gary Simpson, who previously had custody of her, lied to get her out of school in Rogersville, Tennessee, northeast of Knoxville.
 
TBI says Simpson had bought camping supplies, along with makeup, underwear and a girl's bikini before picking Trent up.
 
The last time the two were seen was on security video checking out at a grocery store. They then left in Simpson's white Dodge conversion van.
 
TBI says they have no credible information to suggest the two have left Tennessee, but hundreds of tips have poured in from across the country.
 
Law enforcement in 19 states are tracking tips and leads on Carlie's whereabouts.
 
Simpson's wife Linda, who is Trent's biological aunt, spoke with Scripps National Correspondent Todd Walker. She pleaded with her husband to bring Carlie home unharmed.
 
"She needs to come home," Linda Simpson said. "Don't hurt her. Bring her home. I don't know what he might do. I didn't expect him to take off with her. He's always loved his girls and been good to them."
 
Gary Simpson does not have a criminal record, and TBI says there have been no reports of threats or abuse.
 
TBI spokesman Josh DeVine says investigators believe Trent is in real danger of injury or death.
 
"This was not an innocent camping trip," DeVine said.
 
A $15,000 reward is being offered for her safe return and Gary Simpson's arrest.
 
For a full description of Carlie Trent, Gary Simpson, and the vehicle they were seen leaving in click here.