Photo/Submitted Michael Brian Benson was last seen by his fiancee, Natasha Lohman, between 8:30 and 9 a.m. May 2.

Authorities say they suspect foul play in the disappearance of a Forsyth County man who hasn't been seen since he left his home last week.

Michael Brian Benson, 30, of 7510 Country Walk Court in northwestern Forsyth County was last seen by his fiancee, Natasha Lohman, between 8:30 and 9 a.m. May 2, Forsyth County Sheriff's investigators said.

Lohman said she hasn't heard from him since.

"I'm just telling myself that everything's OK," she said. "But in the back of your mind, you've got to make plans for just in case," she said, adding that she's been trying to keep busy during the difficult time.

Capt. Paul Taylor of the criminal investigations division said the truck Benson was driving that morning, a 2000 black Toyota Tundra, was found about 4:30 p.m. May 3 on Hog Farm Circle, a remote area of Cherokee County.

Investigators said Benson's personal belongings were found in the truck, which raised their suspicions.

Sheriff's investigators are working on the case with the Cherokee County Sheriff's Office.

"Based on our investigation at this point, it appears that the disappearance may be due to suspicious circumstances and could involve foul play," Taylor said.

Lt. Col. Gene Moss said Benson was supposed to meet employees of his construction company at a job site in Cherokee County on the day he went missing, "but he never made it."

"He kept calling and saying he was on his way and he never showed up," Moss said.

Benson is 6 feet 2 inches tall, with a medium build, blond hair and blue eyes. He also has tattoos on his arms and neck.

Lohman said she and Benson had not set their wedding date, but planned to get married sometime this summer. Since his disappearance, Lohman said she has stayed in close contact with his family.

"Me and his father, four or five times a day, are talking to each other," Lohman said.

Authorities are asking anyone who has any information on Benson's whereabouts to call the sheriff's office at (770) 781-2200. Those who wish to remain anonymous can call the Crimestoppers tip line at (770) 888-7308.

E-mail Julie Arrington at juliearrington@forsythnews.com

Originally published Friday, May 9, 2008