Police in Brunswick, MD (Frederick County) are asking for the public’s help in locating a missing woman whose disappearance has prompted an outpouring of concern from family, friends, former coworkers, parents, and students.
The Brunswick Police Department announced Friday evening that 34-year-old Amy Bender was last seen in the Brunswick area on June 5. According to police, Bender was driving a gray 2019 Ford Explorer bearing Maryland registration 1EH8193 and may be traveling near Danville, Virginia. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Brunswick Police Department through its non-emergency number at 301-600-2071.
In response to a comment on the police department’s post, Amy’s husband, Joren Bender, shared additional details about the circumstances surrounding her disappearance.
According to Joren, Amy left home Friday morning and did not arrive at work, prompting her workplace to notify him. He said she left her phone at home and that family members have been working nonstop alongside law enforcement agencies across Maryland and Virginia to locate her.
Joren also shared that Amy is experiencing a mental health crisis and that loved ones are focused on ensuring her safety and getting her the help she needs. “Our families and friends have spent every minute and every second of the day contacting every police office in every county across the state of Virginia to locate her,” he wrote. “Authorities are working to locate her and ensure her safety and help her get home or to the hospital.”
As news of Amy’s disappearance spread, social media quickly filled with messages from people whose lives she has touched throughout her career as an educator.
One parent shared that Amy taught her son in both kindergarten and first grade, adding that he still talks about how much he misses her as a teacher years later. Others described her as a caring educator, supportive colleague, and a person who consistently brought kindness and positivity to those around her.
Former coworkers and friends also shared memories from earlier stages of Amy’s teaching career, recalling her dedication to students and the impact she made on those she worked with.
Anyone who sees Amy Bender or her vehicle, or who may have information about her whereabouts, is urged to contact the Brunswick Police Department at 301-600-2071.
