Police in New Hampshire hope that a vehicle will provide clues to the disappearance of a Portland woman whose car was left running – with her 14-month-old daughter inside – in a ski resort’s parking lot during the weekend.

Police obtained warrants to search Krista Dittmeyer’s vehicle and a second one, said Conway police Lt. Chris Perley, who declined to provide further details Monday.

Police believe Dittmeyer, 20, was the victim of a crime. They say there’s nothing to suggest that Dittmeyer, a graduate of Lake Region High School in Naples who works as a waitress in South Portland, abandoned her daughter.

Her Nissan Sentra was found with its flashers on and its engine running in the parking lot of the Cranmore Mountain Resort in North Conway around 6:30 a.m. Saturday. Dittmeyer’s daughter, who was unharmed, is in the care of family members.

It’s not clear why Dittmeyer was in the area, but her sister, Kayla, has said she had acquaintances there. Perley declined to say whether police have a better idea of why Dittmeyer was in North Conway. Police are following up leads and analyzing evidence that has been seized, Perley said.

The investigation involves Conway police and the New Hampshire State Police. Many people have called police to offer information, Perley said. He encouraged people to call with information, however trivial they may believe it is.

Meanwhile, a family friend is organizing a vigil to support Dittmeyer’s family and pray for her return.

The candlelight vigil will begin at 8 p.m. Thursday by the front entrance of Stevens Brook Elementary School in Bridgton. Some candles will be provided, but attendees can bring their own, said the organizer, Sandy Pasquale.

Anyone with information about Dittmeyer’s whereabouts is urged to contact Conway police at (603) 356-5715.

 

Staff Writer Ann S. Kim can be contacted at 791-6383 or at: akim@pressherald.com