Search in Talladega County stirs emotions for missing woman’s daughter
A search in Talladega County has stirred speculation in the community as authorities dig for answers. Decades of unanswered painful questions remain for the daughter of a woman who disappeared 34 years ago.
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Talladega County search stirs emotions for daughter of Pell City woman missing since 1992
While a search at a property along Wolf Pond Road in Talladega County continues to unfold, community members are saying it could be for a number of reasons related to public safety.The Pell City Police Department has brought in a bulldozer, excavator, and other heavy machinery to dig deep on the property. Neighbors told WVTM last Wednesday that the search has been going on for at least a week, but authorities have not disclosed what investigators are looking for or why the property is being searched.
Multiple agencies are assisting, including the FBI and Jacksonville State University's Center for Applied Forensics.
The search has drawn considerable speculation, especially among families still waiting for answers about missing loved ones.
We reached out to a law enforcement source who believes this search could be connected to the case of Felicia Cochran, a Pell City woman who went missing in 1992.
Brandi Martin says her mother's car was found in Talladega County shortly after her disappearance.
"It's been 34 years since my mother, Felicia Martin Cochran, went missing, and given the events of last week, it has brought up a mix of emotions," Martin said.
Martin said she has leaned on her faith and family while dealing with the uncertainty.
"Just recently, my godmother called and prayed with me because she knew that I was overwhelmed with emotions this week," she said.
Martin has received numerous calls and messages as speculation about the search has spread. She contacted Pell City police Chief Justin Cooper to ask whether investigators were searching for evidence connected to her mother.
Martin said Cooper could not confirm or deny why authorities were searching the property, telling her only that it was part of an ongoing investigation.
"They would let us know at the appropriate time, but at this time, there was nothing that they could tell me," Martin said. "I am very appreciative of the Pell City Police Department's efforts. I understand that there is a lot of uncertainty for a number of families right now."
WVTM asked if the community speculation has caused emotional harm.
"If I'm being honest, I have had many emotional breakdowns this week," she said. "I won't say harm, but it brings up waves of emotions."
Martin said she is trying not to assume the search will finally provide the answers her family has sought for decades.
"I don't want to think this is the moment my family gets closure, and it does not come to fruition," she said.
For now, Martin said she plans to wait for investigators to release more information.
"I am just staying grounded," she said. "I will wait this out and see if it's in relation to my mom."