Investigators are combing the home of a missing Virginia mom as part of ramped-up search efforts to locate her, while her husband sits in jail on suspicions he had something to do with her mysterious vanishing in late July.
Naresh Bhatt, 37, of Manassas Park, Virginia, has been charged with concealing a dead body in connection with the disappearance of his 28-year-old wife Mamta Bhatt, according to police.
"We have conducted several searches for Mamta and continue to search for her," Manassas Park Police Chief Mario Lugo wrote in a statement Tuesday, according to WTTG-TV. "Today, we have executed another search warrant at the residence for additional evidence. Evidence we are looking for cannot be disclosed at this time. We are following up on tips we receive and continue to investigate this case."
Bhatt was arrested Thursday, three weeks after Mamta was last seen alive, following an initial search of the couple's home during which traces of blood were allegedly discovered by investigators.
Investigators believe Mamta's body was dragged out of the home she shared with her husband and their 1-year-old daughter, the outlet reported, citing forensic evidence noted in court documents.
During Bhatt's court appearance last week, prosecutors alleged the defendant probed the internet for an answer to the question: "How long does it take to get married after a spouse dies?" according to the Washington Post.
Prosecutors said evidence found at the Bhatt's home points to Mamta's death, however, they did not elaborate on how they believe she was allegedly killed.
Bhatt has not yet entered a plea to the charge and is being held without bond.
A motive remains under investigation.
Loved ones previously alleged Mamta was a victim of domestic violence at the hands of Bhatt, but charges were never pursued, according to the Post.
