Search continues for accused killer

ROCKFORD, Ohio (WDTN) - As Rockford's police chief makes his rounds on this day, he has something with him that many here haven't seen before, a wanted poster for a murder suspect.

"Been here 50 years and it's the first time it's happened," says resident Clete Schmidt.

Displayed in windows along with the ads for sandwiches and old election signs is now that wanted poster for 40-year-old Daniel "Charles" Martin.

He's accused of shooting and killing his girlfriend 26-year old Melinda Shinn on November 8th.

"Our goal is to make and arrest and bring him in," said Sheriff Jeff Grey during an update Thursday on the investigation.

Candle wax and a cross still remain outside the home in Rockford where Melinda was killed and friends held a vigil.

In a statement, those at Cooper Farms where she worked talked about her shining personality and her love for her 9-year old son.

This was shown, "in her recent desire to work extra hours just so she could purchase that special Christmas gift for him."

To honor Melinda's memory, her co-workers are chipping in to make sure her son has a good Christmas.

Meanwhile those in Rockford are trying to recapture their sense of security.

"That just proves you're never safe in a small town the way things are now," Schmidt says.

Deputies say Martin may still be armed so if you see him you're not supposed to approach him but instead call the Mercer County Sheriff's Office at 419-586-7724 or call your local law enforcement agency.

His car was previously found in Fort Wayne, IN.