FBI Searching for Missing SBCC Student

The Federal Bureau of Investigation has joined in on the investigation of the disappearance of Brianna Denison, a 19-year-old Santa Barbara City College student who disappeared from a friend’s house in Reno, Nevada, sometime Sunday morning. According to a statement from the Reno Police Department, the FBI has opened its own criminal case on the disappearance and an agent will be working with local police.

Denison’s friends last saw her asleep on a couch near an unlocked sliding glass door at the house, which is located not far from the University of Nevada, according to news reports. Left behind were her cell phone, purse, clothing and two pairs of shoes, which hadn’t been touched. A silver dollar-sized spot believed to be blood was found on a pillow, but police detectives are still waiting for test results on the pillow. Police, working with federal, state, and local law enforcement, today continued to search the area surrounding the home she disappeared from, using helicopters and police K-9 units.

Denison, a psychology student at SBCC, is described as a white female, about five feet tall and 98 lbs. She has long, dark brown hair and blue eyes. She was last seen wearing a white tank-top shirt and pink sweatpants. She is a Reno High School graduate.

Police are hoping to speak with the driver of a light brown or beige Chevrolet or GMC SUV who they say is not considered a suspect, but someone who might be able to help with the investigation. The man – described as a white male, possibly of Latin descent, and about 45 years old and of medium stature – gave a ride to one of Denison’s friends back to the house they were staying at.

Police have established a 24-hour tip-line at (775) 745-3521. The Secret Witness Program can also be called at (775) 322-4900.