Cartersville, Georgia — The Bartow County Sheriff’s Office has launched an urgent search for 34-year-old Shelby Alexandra Fednander, a local mother who disappeared just hours after being released from the county jail on October 27, 2025. Her sudden absence has left family members in deep distress, fearing for her safety as each day passes without contact or any confirmed sighting.
Authorities say the case is being treated as a high priority, given the circumstances surrounding her release and reports that she may have been experiencing a mental health crisis. The search is focused across northwest Georgia, particularly in the Cartersville area, where she was last seen walking alone shortly after leaving the detention facility.
According to official records, Fednander exited the Bartow County Jail at 2:57 p.m., carrying her release papers after serving time on misdemeanor family violence charges. The charges stemmed from an August incident involving simple battery and third-degree cruelty to children. Upon leaving, she had no vehicle, purse, or other belongings, suggesting she was on foot and without a clear plan or destination.
Witnesses last spotted her near Zena Drive, a quiet residential area located not far from the jail. She was reportedly dressed in the standard clothing issued at release, with minimal personal effects. Investigators have noted that her cellphone, which was cracked and possibly non-functional, has made digital tracking extremely difficult. This has left law enforcement and family members relying heavily on physical searches and community assistance.
Fednander is described as standing 5 feet 3 inches tall and weighing around 130 pounds. She has brown hair and green or blue eyes, with no visible tattoos or distinguishing marks. Detectives are asking anyone who may have seen someone matching her description since October 27 to immediately contact the Bartow County Sheriff’s Office.
Her family has expressed growing concern over her disappearance, describing her silence as deeply uncharacteristic. Loved ones said that despite facing personal challenges, she has always remained closely connected to her children and relatives. Her lack of communication for several days has heightened fears that she may be disoriented or in emotional distress.
Relatives describe Shelby as resilient and caring, someone who has faced hardship yet continually sought to improve her life for her family. They say her sudden disappearance has left an aching void at home, particularly for her three children, who are anxiously awaiting any news about their mother’s whereabouts. Family members have been distributing flyers, contacting shelters, and coordinating with volunteers to widen the search area.
Local law enforcement continues to coordinate with other agencies, including search-and-rescue teams and mental health professionals, to ensure that every possible lead is followed. Deputies have also been checking public spaces such as parks, shelters, and hospitals, in hopes of locating her safely.
The Sheriff’s Office is urging the public to stay alert and report any possible sightings or relevant information. Even small details, they say, could prove crucial in finding her. The department has emphasized that the focus remains on ensuring her safe return to her family.
As the search enters its fifth day, the Cartersville community continues to rally behind the family, sharing social media posts and organizing local efforts to spread awareness. Loved ones remain hopeful that she will be found soon and safely reunited with those who care most about her.
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