Author raising money for Amy Mihaljevic film

Local author James Renner has launched a fundraising campaign to raise money for a feature film based on the search for Amy Mihaljevic’s killer. Ten-year-old Amy was abducted from Bay Village on Oct. 27, 1989. Her body was later found in rural Ashland County. No one has ever been charged with her murder.

In 2006, Renner’s book, "Amy: My Search for Her Killer," took a new look at the case, revealing important new clues and suspects. Before he became a journalist, Renner worked in film, adapting a Stephen King story starring Harvey Pekar and Michael Stanley, which premiered at the 2005 Montreal Film Festival.

Donations as little as $10 may be made using PayPal or credit card at www.indiegogo.com/amy-movie. Each donation earns a “special thanks” in the credits and other gifts such as tickets to the premiere and film photo albums. Producer credits are still available. If the goal of $35,000 is not met before Nov. 20, all donations will be automatically refunded.

Renner plans to begin filming the movie, tentatively titled "The Girl with the Sideways Ponytail," in February using a Cleveland-based crew. As a show of support for this project, he has pledged to direct the film for free.

Amy’s father, Mark Mihaljevic, has given his blessing and hopes the film will bring more attention to his daughter’s cold case.