Juju Chang

It's also the first time they're hearing that Sarah may have had a strained relationship with her dad.

The officers only talk to Liam for a few minutes.

He says he doesn't know where she is.

He says he hasn't heard from her.

There's not much more to talk about.

As the officers head out, they try to press upon him just how serious this all is.

When the officers get back in the car, one of them sums up everything they've learned during their middle-of-the-night search for Sarah.

It's a muddled picture of Sarah's life and mental state, shaped by their interviews with Robin Draper and Liam McIntasney.

Officers don't know what to make of the case.

Is it a missing person?

Is it a suicide?

At this point, nobody knows.

By daybreak, the search for Sarah will accelerate, with divers and rescue boats on the frigid Shark River.

And police will look more closely at Sarah's inner circle, examining friendships, lies, and perhaps even betrayal.

How did Sarah simply vanish into the night?

If you or someone you know are experiencing suicidal thoughts, substance use, or any other mental health crisis, please call or text the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

You'll reach a trained crisis counselor for free, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

You can also go to 988lifeline.org.

Bridge of Lies is a production of ABC Audio and 2020.

Hosted by me, Juju Chang.