Heather Ballard, 27, was last seen in Syracuse, New York, in spring 2012. Her family last had contact with her around April 8, 2012. At the time she was living on Catherine Street and was a mother of four young children; she did not have custody but stayed in touch when she could.

The last confirmed sighting was April 16, 2012, when police encountered Heather and another woman at a James Street property known for drug activity. Heather’s family reported her missing on May 7, 2012, after her absence exceeded what they considered a normal period of being out of touch. In the month before she disappeared her mother noted behavioral changes she attributed to synthetic marijuana use; the family also reported struggles with depression, anxiety, past abusive relationships and a history of drug abuse. Investigators have said they suspect foul play, and a warrant was issued after her disappearance; the investigation remains open and the Syracuse Police Department is handling the case.

If anyone knew Heather, her routines, or saw her in Syracuse after April 16, 2012, please share information with the Syracuse Police Department.