By Mary O’KEEFE

Burbank police and the Federal Bureau of Investigation are asking for the public’s help in their continued search for missing FBI Special Agent Stephen Ivens.

Ivens, 35, was reported missing to the Burbank police on Friday morning. His family told police they last saw him on Thursday, May 10. He is thought to be despondent and possibly suicidal. A gun was unaccounted for in his home.

“We do believe he may have his service weapon with him,” said Laura Eimiller, FBI spokeswoman.

His family released an open letter asking for the public’s understanding and help in locating their missing loved one.

“Steve is more than just a missing person. He is a father, a husband, a son, a brother, a nephew, a friend and a colleague in this community,” the letter from his wife states. “He would never hurt or be a risk to anyone.”

In the letter the family asks for the public’s help with any information that may lead to bringing Ivens back home.

“Steve, if you are out there listening right now, your wife wants to let you know, ‘Babe, we are in this together for better or worse. I love you, no matter what happens’,” the letter continues to state.

About 75 searchers from law enforcement, including Montrose Search and Rescue, have joined in the search that has concentrated in the Verdugo Mountains area.

“We do believe he left his residence on foot. He liked to hike and the closest mountain range is the Verdugo Mountains,” Eimiller added.

A K-9 unit hit on Ivens’ scent in the area, however it may have been from an earlier hike.

“He is believed to be in possible casual or athletic clothing,” she added.

Ivens wears glasses but investigators do not know if he was wearing them when he left the house.

“Although the search has primarily been focused in the Burbank Foothills, we have enlisted the public’s help throughout Southern California,” said Sgt. Darin Ryburn, Burbank Police spokesman.

Both Burbank and the FBI are working on several tips and leads of possible sightings of Ivens from the public.

Eimiller added there has been an outpouring of people who want to help in the search.

The family has created a Facebook page, “Lets bring Steve home,” to help communicate with those who are concerned about the safe return of Ivens.

“We ask for your prayers in getting Steve back home safely,” wrote Iven’s wife.

  Mary Okeefe