NYSP Joins FBI in Joint Search for Missing Vermont Student

21-Year-Old Student Missing Since the Weekend

Authorities in two states are now working together in the urgent search for 21-year-old Lia Smith, a Middlebury College student who has been missing since the weekend.

According to officials, New York State Police have joined Vermont State Police, the Middlebury Police Department, and the FBI in the coordinated effort to find Smith. Search crews have been combing the area by land and air, using drones, K9 units, and ground teams, with additional support from U.S. Border Patrol agents earlier this week.

Last Seen on Friday

Smith was last seen on the Middlebury College campus on Friday night and was reported missing on Sunday.

Since then, her disappearance has shaken the small Vermont town and the tight-knit campus community, which is about 120 miles north of Albany.

Smith is described as 5'11”, about 160 pounds, with brown hair and blue eyes.

Vermont State Police Facebook

Authorities have used drones in their efforts and are continuing to expand search areas. They're asking anyone with information about Lia's whereabouts to contact Middlebury Police at 802-388-3191 or submit a tip through their website.

Full-Scale Search Includes the NYSP

More than 600 students have joined an online group to share updates and volunteer to help locate their classmates.

“We’re a (tiny) community,” said senior Lucy Schembre. “Even if you don’t know someone personally, you definitely know somebody who knows them.”

Authorities describe the ongoing effort as a “full-scale search” that continues today. Anyone with information about Lia Smith’s whereabouts is urged to contact the Middlebury Police Department or Vermont State Police immediately.