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On the night of Saturday, July 26, 2025, the Tucson Police Department’s Human Exploitation and Trafficking (HEaT) unit was contacted by Eastside patrol officers regarding two missing juveniles, ages 14 and 16. Both were identified as refugees from Central Africa and had been reported as runaways.
TPD/HEaT responded to the location at 7450 E. 22nd Street, received a briefing, and launched an investigation. It was determined that the juveniles had left home voluntarily on the evening of Wednesday, July 23, 2025. Out of concern, the family attempted to find the girls themselves before contacting authorities, which resulted in a delay. During the investigation, detectives recovered a cell phone and tablet believed to be the juveniles’ primary means of communication. Evidence indicated the juveniles planned to run away and coordinated with adult males located in Dayton, Ohio, with whom they had developed relationships through social media. It appeared the juveniles intended to relocate to Dayton, and on the night of their disappearance, the men reportedly drove from Ohio to Tucson to pick them up.
After further examination of the devices, investigators identified a person of interest residing in Dayton. Tucson HEaT detectives contacted the Dayton Police Department, which conducted follow-up at a suspected residence. Investigators also coordinated with the U.S. Marshals Service Violent Offender Task Force/Missing Children Unit in Arizona. This information was forwarded to the Southern Ohio Fugitive Apprehension Strike Team (SOFAST), which began efforts to locate the missing juveniles. On July 31, at approximately 6 a.m. local time, SOFAST safely located both juveniles at the suspected Dayton residence. The juveniles were unharmed and are now in protective care and undergoing forensic examination. The investigation into potential unlawful activity involving the juveniles during their time away from home remains active.
The Tucson Police Department extends its sincere appreciation to the Dayton Police Department, the U.S. Marshals Service in both Arizona and Ohio, and SOFAST for their swift and coordinated response. Their teamwork and support were instrumental in ensuring the safe recovery of the missing juveniles. Authorities are working to facilitate the children’s safe return to their family.
Parental Guidance: What to Do if Your Child Goes Missing
Immediate Actions:
- Call 9-1-1 and report your child missing as soon as you become aware. Once reported, runaways are automatically entered into the system, even before an officer makes contact.
- Provide the dispatcher with your child’s full name, age, physical description, recent photograph, and any known history or contacts.
Stay Involved:
- Know your child’s social media accounts, friends, and common hangout locations.
- Consider using location-sharing apps or tools, especially with teens.
Using Social Media Safely:
- If posting a flyer or information online, avoid sharing your personal phone number. Instead, direct tips to 9-1-1 or the anonymous tip line at 88-CRIME.
- Be cautious of scam calls claiming to have your child. If in doubt, notify law enforcement immediately.
When Your Child Is Found:
- Law enforcement will assist with reuniting you and your child.
- If your child returns home on their own, immediately notify 9-1-1 so the case can be closed properly.
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