Find Hailey Dunn: Adkins' Former Classmate Speaks Out
By: Priscilla Luong
Updated: February 14, 2011
Seven weeks after 13-year old Hailey Dunn's disappearance in Colorado City, a former classmate of the only named suspect in the case speaks out.
The small pink teddy bear Elizabeth Arrelano set by "Hailey's Bridge" in Dunn is a sign of hope.
"What about Hailey, I just don't want anyone to forget about Hailey," she said.
Her connection to the story? Shawn Adkins.
"He pretty much kept to himself," recalls Arrelano, "dressed all in black, gothic."
Arrelano says she attended high school with Adkins in Snyder. Adkins is the only suspect Colorado City authorities will name in the case. Arrelano still remembers watching Adkins for the first time on television after Hailey's disappearance.
"I was like. I know this guy," she remembers, "and I pulled out my yearbook, and yes I did have a class with him."
They took a drama class together. Arrelano says she understands why many people think Adkins was involved in Hailey's disappearance.
"With all the footage that's on YouTube, and all these videos that I've seen online, it wouldn't surprise me," said Arrelano.
Until authorities find the missing teen.
"I just hope and pray that she comes home safe and sound," said Arrelano.
Teddy bears will remain on Hailey's bridge until she returns.
