Family and Police Search for 16-Year-Old Missing Girl in Fall River – Here’s What We Know

The family of Emily Santiago, a 16-year-old student from Fall River, is frantic after she was reported missing early Monday morning. Emily, who is a sophomore at B.M.C. Durfee High School, was last seen leaving her home at around 7:30 AM, but she never made it to school that day. Now, both her worried family and local police are desperately trying to find any clue that might lead to her safe return.

A Mother’s Heartbreaking Plea

Emily’s mother, Maria Santiago, has been beside herself ever since she realized her daughter was missing. The day began like any other. Emily left for school as usual, but by the time the school bell rang, she still hadn’t returned home.

“I don’t know where she is, and I just can’t stop thinking about her,” Maria said, her voice trembling with emotion. “Emily wouldn’t just leave. She knows how much I worry. This isn’t like her at all.”

Maria has been working closely with the Fall River Police Department, providing them with everything she can — from details about Emily’s daily routines to possible friends or places she might have visited. But so far, there’s been no sign of her.

“Every day without hearing from her feels like an eternity,” Maria said, holding back tears. “I just want to know she’s okay.”

Police Investigation Intensifies

Fall River police have wasted no time investigating Emily’s disappearance. They’ve spoken with family, friends, and classmates, and are combing through surveillance footage from around Emily’s neighborhood, hoping to find a lead. They’ve also been checking in with nearby businesses and using social media to gather information.

“We’re doing everything we can,” said Captain Paul Figueiredo of the Fall River Police Department. “Right now, our primary goal is to find Emily and bring her home safely. We’re reaching out to anyone who might have seen something, even if it seems small. It could make all the difference.”

Though the investigation is still ongoing, police have asked the public to stay alert and report anything they might have seen that could help.

“We are grateful for the outpouring of support from the community. Every tip helps,” Captain Figueiredo added.

Support from the Community

The entire community is rallying behind the search for Emily. Her friends at Durfee High School have been using social media to spread the word, with many sharing photos of Emily and asking anyone who might know anything to come forward. Local businesses have also put up flyers, hoping someone might have seen Emily or have information that could help.

Sophia Rivera, one of Emily’s closest friends, said she can’t believe this is happening. “She’s always so responsible, and we’re just so used to seeing her around. This feels unreal,” she said. “We just want her to come home safe.”

Even people who don’t know Emily personally have expressed their concern. “I’m a mother myself, and I can’t even imagine what Maria must be going through,” said Carla Moore, a local business owner. “We’re all just hoping she comes home safe.”

A Desperate Search Continues

In the days following Emily’s disappearance, both the police and volunteers have been scouring the area in hopes of finding her. Search teams have been covering nearby parks, walking paths, and other areas where Emily might have gone. But despite their efforts, there has still been no sign of her.

“Every hour that goes by without finding her makes it harder,” Maria said. “I just keep praying she’s okay, that she’s not hurt or in danger.”

Though the situation is incredibly tense, Maria has remained hopeful. She’s been holding onto the belief that someone in the community has seen something — anything — that could help lead them to Emily.

“I just need to hear from her,” Maria said softly. “I just want to know where she is.”

Social Media Campaign Brings Hope

As the search continues, social media has played a huge role in raising awareness. The hashtag #FindEmilySantiago has been shared by thousands of people in the region, urging others to keep an eye out and help in any way they can. Emily’s friends have shared her picture and called for the community to stay on alert.

“We know she wouldn’t disappear on her own. She’s out there somewhere,” said Lena Morales, a classmate of Emily’s. “We’re all doing everything we can to bring her home.”

A Mother’s Hope

Despite the uncertainty, Maria is determined to stay positive and keep the hope alive. She’s asking anyone who might have any information — no matter how small — to come forward. “If anyone knows anything, please, please let us know,” she said, her voice breaking. “I just want my daughter back.”

As the community continues to rally around Emily’s family, the hope is that she will be found safe and sound soon.