A homicide team has been assigned to assist the missing persons unit in investigating the disappearance of Karen Schmittler of Kahuku, who has not been seen since between 8:30 and 9 p.m. Feb. 1.

Despite several media bulletins, there have been no sightings or tips of Schmittler, 44, reported to police heightening concerns. The case is still classified as a missing person investigation, police said.

On Friday, police conducted a fifth search in the Kahuku area without success.

Anyone with information on Schmittler can call police at 911 or Honolulu CrimeStoppers at 955-8300 or *CRIME on a cellular phone.