Lewisham Police are urgently appealing for assistance in locating a teenage girl who has gone missing.
Earth, 13, was last seen on September 28, and her family and authorities are increasingly concerned for her wellbeing.
In an update posted to MPS Lewisham on X, they state, “Can you help us find Earth #missing 06/10/2024. Approximately 5 foot 7. Wearing camo tracksuit bottoms, black parker jacket, grey back pack, pony tail buns, beige Jurassic world crocs. Call 101 and quote 01/821269/24 #missingperson“
She was last seen wearing a black short-sleeve top, black tracksuit bottoms, a beige hooded top, and Crocs in the Lewisham area.
Unfortunately, cases like this are not uncommon in the UK. According to the charity Missing People, approximately 70,000 children are reported missing each year across the country. That equates to one child being reported missing every 6 minutes.
A significant portion of these cases involve teenagers, with children between the ages of 12 and 17 representing over 80% of all reports. Many are found within 48 hours, but for some, like the current case, the search extends longer, heightening fears and urgency.
Missing People also highlights that certain vulnerable groups, including children in care or those experiencing family or school difficulties, are disproportionately represented in missing persons reports.
Authorities are also investigating her links to Deptford and Stratford. She has now been missing for over a week.
Anyone who may have seen Earth or has information about her whereabouts is urged to call 999 immediately, referencing case number 01/887555/24.
Earth’s disappearance has sparked a widespread appeal for help across social media, with many sharing her description in hopes of her safe return.
One of the most impactful aspects of social media in these cases is its ability to harness the power of community-driven efforts. The “viral” nature of posts about missing individuals means that even those who are not directly involved in the search can contribute by sharing posts and amplifying awareness.
In many cases, this has led to swift resolutions, with children being safely returned to their families after being spotted by someone who saw a post online.
