The partner of a missing American Airlines flight attendant has spoken out as the search continues in Colombia.
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Fernando Gutierrez, 32, is based out of Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport. He was last seen in Medellín during an overnight layover.
He reportedly went out to a nightclub on Saturday night and has not been seen since.
Partner Speaks out as Search Intensifies for Missing Crew Member
Gutierrez's partner, Ernesto Carranza, says he is holding onto hope despite the growing uncertainty.
"I want to believe that he's alive, and I want to continue believing that he's alive, but throughout each day you wake up not knowing anything and it makes the days go by longer and slower," he told CBS News.
Local outlet TeleMedellín reported that Gutierrez had gone out in the El Poblado neighborhood, a popular nightlife area in the city.
According to reports, he was out with a group that later encountered two men at a nightclub. They allegedly invited them to continue the night at another location.
At some point later in the night, Gutierrez became separated from the group.
Authorities later found his friend in a disoriented state and transported her to a medical center. However, Gutierrez's whereabouts remain unknown.
As the investigation continues, authorities are exploring the possibility that he may have been drugged and abducted.
Suspicious Phone Activity Raises Further Concern
Carranza said he last spoke to Gutierrez the night before he disappeared, when he mentioned plans to go out with colleagues.
The following morning, he was unable to reach him. He later noticed unusual activity linked to Gutierrez's phone.
"Both locations were nowhere near where he was supposed to sleep for the night," Carranza said.
Authorities in Medellín have indicated that individuals connected to the night out may have a history of theft.
They could be linked to the use of scopolamine, a drug often referred to as "Devil's breath". The drug can incapacitate victims for extended periods.
U.S. officials have previously warned travelers to exercise caution when visiting Colombia, citing concerns over crime, civil unrest and the risk of kidnapping.
"We are actively engaged with local law enforcement officials in their investigation and doing all we can to support our team member's family during this time," American Airlines said in a statement to NBC 5.
