BRADENTON, Fla. — Police are investigating what they call the "suspicious disappearance" of a Bradenton woman who has not been heard from since Jan. 22.
Catherine Stirm, 67, was in touch with her coworkers on Jan. 22 but did not show up for work in the following days. On Jan. 29, Catherine's coworkers requested a welfare check on her.
Bradenton Police Detectives found Catherine's car at the Sawgrass Cove Apartments on Jan. 30. They say Catherine's brother, Scott Stirm, lives in the complex.
After locating Catherine's vehicle, detectives repeatedly tried to make contact with Scott but were unsuccessful.
A search warrant was conducted at Scott's home on Feb. 1. Police say the evidence collected makes them "gravely concerned" for Catherine's welfare.
On the evening of Feb. 1, Scott Stirm's car was found at the Days Inn on Windmere Road in Brooksville. Scott was found dead in his hotel room from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Catherine was not with her brother.
Detectives with the Bradenton Police Department along with the Manatee County Homicide Task Force are investigating this case.
Anyone with information on Catherine's disappearance is asked to contact Detective Jeff Beckley at jeff.beckley@bradentonpd.com, or call police at 941-932-9300. Anonymous tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at manateecrimestoppers.com or 866-634-8477. You may be eligible for a reward of up to $3,000.
