Missing Maine mom Krista Dittmeyer victim of crime, say N.H. cops
(CBS/WBZ/AP) CONWAY, N.H. - Krista Dittmeyer, a 20-year-old Maine mother whose car and infant daughter were abandoned in a New Hampshire parking lot, appears to be the victim of a crime, police said Sunday.
Local and state police are investigating leads and preparing evidence for analysis after Dittmeyer's car was found with its engine running and hazard lights flashing in the Cranmore Mountain ski area parking lot in Conway, said Lt. Chris Perley.
But according to CBS affiliate WBZ, there is nothing to indicate that Dittmeyer left behind her car and child, who was found in the car, by choice.
"There is nothing we've uncovered to indicate that she voluntarily absented herself from the vehicle or the child," Perley told the station. "People have asked about suicide or mental illness, but there's nothing to indicate either of those things."
Police got a call at 6:30 a.m. Saturday from someone who spotted the car. The baby is in good condition and has been turned over to family members.
Police said Dittmeyer, who lives and works in Portland and has ties to Bridgton, Maine, last talked to family members at about 8 p.m. Friday by phone.
Family friend Kathy Pratt said the incident is uncharacteristic of Dittmeyer, who she described as a caring, responsible mother.
"Knowing Krista is that she would never, ever, ever leave that baby in that car by herself, never. Krista is such a devoted mother," Pratt told WBZ. "Whatever happened, it would not be voluntary on her part."
Her mom said that Dittmeyer frequently visits her family and friends in Conway.
