By MICHAEL HILL
MOREAU, N.Y. — In an astonishing turn of events, a 9-year-old girl who went missing during a family camping trip in upstate New York has been found safe and sound following a two-day search, according to authorities.
New York State Police announced that Charlotte Sena was located “in good health,” and they have a suspect in custody in connection with her disappearance on Saturday evening.
While further details have not been immediately released, law enforcement officers, forest rangers, and numerous others tirelessly scoured an extensive area of upstate New York after the young girl vanished while riding her bicycle in Moreau Lake State Park, located about 35 miles north of Albany.
The initial fear was that Charlotte had been abducted, prompting her family to issue a heartfelt plea for the public’s assistance in locating her. They urged anyone with any information to contact state police.
“We just want her returned safely like any parent would,” the family expressed in a statement. “No tip is too small, so please call if you know anything at all.”
The search effort intensified on Monday, with over 400 individuals involved, including state and local police, forest rangers, volunteer firefighters, and private search and rescue groups. Additionally, the FBI was called upon to provide assistance.
As the search expanded to cover 46 linear miles on Monday, the terrain became increasingly challenging due to its heavily wooded nature.
Troopers established several checkpoints along the park’s winding rural roads. They stopped drivers and inquired about their knowledge of the family, whether they had seen the missing girl’s photo, or if they possessed any other information that could aid in the search. Some drivers were even asked to open their trunks.
Due to the ongoing search and to ensure the safety of law enforcement air operations, Moreau Lake State Park remained closed. Authorities advised members of the public who wanted to help to stay away and leave the search to the professionals. Additionally, federal authorities issued a temporary flight restriction over the park.
“Charlotte is a bright and adventurous girl who loves to be outside,” emphasized state police in a statement. “She always puts others first, with a huge heart and an ambition to create a club at her school for kids who don’t have friends. Please know that we continue to work around the clock to bring Charlotte home safe and sound.”
Charlotte, a fourth grader from the nearby town of Greenfield, had been riding her bike around a campsite loop with other children when she decided to take an additional solo ride. Her parents grew concerned when she failed to return after 15 minutes, as shared by Gov. Kathy Hochul during a Sunday briefing.
At approximately 6:45 p.m. on Saturday, the girl’s mother dialed 911 after discovering her daughter’s abandoned bicycle.
Following an exhaustive search and the possibility of an abduction, officials issued an Amber Alert on Sunday morning. The alert described Charlotte as a white girl with blonde hair and green eyes, standing at around 4 feet 6 inches tall.
She was last seen wearing an orange tie-dye Pokemon shirt, dark blue pants, black Crocs, and a grey bike helmet.
The Corinth Central School District reported that extra counselors were present at Charlotte’s elementary school to provide support for students and staff in need.
“Our hearts go out to the Sena family,” expressed the district in a statement.
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