A Minnesota mother is desperately calling for the safe return of her daughter, who has been missing for almost two weeks.
On January 22, Shannon Kamal discovered her daughter Ariana Counts‘ disappearance through a social media post, after not seing her in eight years.
“I was scrolling on missing peoples’ posts, and I saw one and was like, ‘wow, she’s pretty!’ Then I seen the last name that said ‘Counts,’” Kamal told Valley News Live.
The 15-year-old was last seen a few weeks ago in Moorhead’s, while her mother said despite losing custody years ago, she’s concerned for her daughter’s safety.
Kamal insisted that anyone can assist in the search for her daughter, irrespective of custody concerns.
“It doesn’t matter what the mom or dad did; that child needs to be found,” she stated.
After sharing missing posters for Ariana on social media, Shannon said she received several negative comments.
“People are fixated on my custody situation, but my daughter is missing. We don’t know if she’s safe, and that’s what matters right now. We need to ensure her safety,” she stated.
Meanwhile, the Moorhead Police Department is seeking the public’s assistance in locating Ariana, who was last seen on January 8.
Ariana is described as 5 feet 5 inches tall, weighing 120 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes. She was last seen wearing a black coat, gray hoodie, black sweatpants, and white tennis shoes.
Anyone with information about Ariana’s whereabouts is encouraged to contact the Moorhead Police Department at 701-451-7660.
The story is developing. Check back for updates.
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[Feature Photo via Moorhead PZ]