The family of a missing Ohio girl is pleading for assistance after she vanished earlier this month, possibly with an adult man.
Whitney Hatfield, 16, was last seen at her grandmother’s South Salem home on March 7, between 1:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. Her mother said she may be in the company of an older male whom she possibly met online.
Family members said she didn’t take anything with her besides her phone.
“She has been struggling with wanting a different life. She is always seeking companionship and usually with males of the older variety,” her mother told the Scioto County Daily News. “That in and of itself presents risks. And it is one that I have combated with her for a couple of years.”
***MISSING JUVENILE*** SOUTH SALEM, OHIO
The Ross County Sheriff’s Office is requesting the public’s assistance in locating a 16-year-old female. Whitney Hatfield was last seen between 1:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 7, 2024 in the area of the 4600 Block of Main… pic.twitter.com/sAfA8cwkfK
— The AWARE Foundation (@aware_the) March 11, 2024
According to the Ross County Sheriff’s Office, Whitney is described as a white female who stands 5 feet, 3 inches tall and weighs around 130 pounds. She was last seen wearing light-colored jogging pants and a dark t-shirt.
Anyone with information on her whereabouts is urged to contact the Ross County Sheriff’s Office at 740-773-1185.
The story is developing. Check back for updates.
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[Feature Photo via Ross County Sheriff’s Office]