‘Dateline’ Season 33 begins with case of missing Ohio art student Katelyn Markham

(NBC News) — Dateline is kicking off its 33rd season this Friday with a case that focuses on the sudden disappearance of a young art student from Ohio, Katelyn Markham.

Here is a preview of Andrea Canning’s report:

It was supposed to be one of the most carefree days of the year.

ALLY MARKHAM: My dad called me and asked if I had talked to Katelyn or knew where she was.

DAVE MARKHAM: I didn’t know what to think, but it did not feel right.

But Dave didn’t know yet just how wrong it was.

ALLY MARKHAM: I was just starting high school and then my sister goes missing.

Fairfield police ramped up the search effort. Katelyn’s fiancé was out there talking to everyone he could.

JOHN CARTER: Katelyn is the love of my life. We’ve been engaged for a year.

By now, the case was making national headlines.

DAVE MARKHAM: I wanna hug her so bad, I wanna see her.

ALLY MARKHAM: Everyone knew what was going on. It was like my whole life was on TV.

Katelyn’s dad felt helpless.

DAVE MARKHAM: I hoped that she was still alive. I didn’t really feel that way.

But, there would be a big break in the case.

AMBER MORGAN: There is no way this is happening.

ANDREA CANNING: You get some news that will change everything.

BRAD BURRESS: It was very surprising to me.

Watch “Dateline: The Butterfly,” on Friday at 9 p.m. on NBC4.

About ‘Dateline’

“Dateline NBC” is the longest-running series in NBC primetime history and is in its 33rd season. Dateline is anchored by Lester Holt and features correspondents Andrea Canning, Josh Mankiewicz, Keith Morrison and Dennis Murphy.

The stories range from compelling mysteries to powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. When major news breaks, they go to the scene, putting the pieces together to bring the viewer the full picture. And in every story they tell, they help the real people who lived the events share their journeys with the viewer.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NBC4 WCMH-TV.