Shannan Gilbert’s purse found - grieving mother believes her daughter was murdered

A handbag believed to be that of missing Shannon Gilbert was discovered in the marsh at Oak Beach, Long Island. A law enforcement source said they believe the pocketbook belonged to the missing New Jersey woman.

Speaking to the New York Post Gilbert’s mother Mari said “At some point they want me to identify [the bag]....There are some things in the bag, but I’m not sure what they are. I know Shannan did not have a driver's license or ID card -- but she had other cards with her name on it."

She continued “I just don’t know what to think right now...You try to just hold out hope of some kind.”
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The police also believe that Gilbert could have drowned and may not have been a victim of the serial killer who claimed ten people’s lives on Long Island. Gilbert’s mom doesn’t buy this theory.

She said “Shannan couldn’t swim...She would never go anywhere near water. I don’t buy the drowning theory for a second. She would never have gone close to any sort of water.”

Inspector Stuart Cameron of the Suffolk County K-9 unit told the Long Island Press that heavy equipment will be brought in to clear the marsh area. He commented on how difficult it is to search in the marshes as the land sinks when you step on it.

Police in Suffolk County have confirmed that no human remains have been found during their latest search around the area surrounding Gilgo beach. Searchers used an amphibious tracking vehicle to examine the area around where the woman was last seen.

Gilbert, who was working as an escort and advertised on Craigslist, had met her client Joe Brewer of Oak Beach, on the night she disappears. Brewer has cooperated with the police.

Michael Pak from Jersey City, was her driver that evening. He told the Post he believes these belonging are a big clue.

He said “It's a big clue because if her cell phone or her wallet is still in her purse, then she probably fell into the water by herself. But if those things are missing, that might mean foul play."