Nine-Year-Old Girl Previously Missing from New York State Park Located Unharmed, Say Authorities

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A nine-year-old girl, who had been reported missing during a family camping expedition in upstate New York, was found unharmed this Monday after a rigorous two-day search, according to official statements.

Charlotte Sena was discovered in a satisfactory state of health, and an individual has been apprehended in relation to her mysterious absence on Saturday evening, as per a communication from the New York State Police.

Further details from the authorities are pending.

In an extensive search operation, a multitude of law enforcement agents, forest rangers, and other personnel scoured large areas of upstate New York. The girl was last seen cycling in Moreau Lake State Park, situated approximately 35 miles (60 kilometers) to the north of Albany, the state police indicated.

The police had expressed earlier concerns that the girl might have been kidnapped.

A public plea for assistance in locating Charlotte was issued by her family, encouraging anyone with information to contact the state police. “We are desperate for her safe return, as any parent would be,” the family announced. “No piece of information is too trivial; we urge anyone with even the smallest detail to come forward.”

Participation in the search escalated to around 400 individuals on Monday, a significant increase from just over 100 the previous day, according to state police. The operation involved state and local law enforcement agencies, forest rangers, volunteer firefighters, and private search and rescue organizations. Federal assistance was also solicited from the FBI.

Governor Kathy Hochul acknowledged on the platform previously known as Twitter, her deep gratitude towards the New York State Police, State Parks Police, and all collaborating entities who committed their efforts to safely recovering Charlotte and reuniting her with her family.

By Monday, the geographical scope of the search had extended over 46 linear miles (74 linear kilometers), much of it consisting of densely forested areas.

To facilitate the investigation, state troopers established multiple checkpoints on the serpentine, rural roads surrounding the park. Drivers were halted and questioned about any familiarity with the family, or any additional information that could expedite the search. Some were also asked to open their vehicle trunks for inspection.

The state park remained temporarily closed to the public as a result of the ongoing search operations. Officials advised those who arrived with intentions to assist to refrain from doing so and allow professionals to conduct the search. Airspace over the park was temporarily restricted by federal authorities to ensure the safety of aerial law enforcement activities.

According to a statement from the state police, Charlotte is described as an outdoor-loving, bright, and altruistic young girl. “We remain committed to working ceaselessly to bring Charlotte back to her family,” the statement read.

The young girl, a fourth-grade student from the nearby town of Greenfield, had initially been riding her bicycle with other children at a camping site in the scenic park. When she chose to take one final lap alone and failed to return within a quarter of an hour, her parents grew increasingly concerned, as reported by Governor Kathy Hochul in a Sunday briefing.

An emergency call was made by Charlotte’s mother after discovering her bicycle abandoned at approximately 6:45 p.m. on Saturday.

An Amber Alert was subsequently issued on Sunday morning following a thorough search, which led officials to suspect a possible abduction, according to State Police Lt. Colonel Richard Mazzone. Charlotte was described as a white female with blonde hair and green eyes, standing about 4 feet 6 inches tall (1.37 meters).

In a statement, Corinth Central School District announced the provision of additional counseling services at Charlotte’s elementary school to support affected students and staff.

“Our sympathies are extended to the Sena family during this distressing period,” the school district stated.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Missing Nine-Year-Old Found Safe

More about Missing Nine-Year-Old Found Safe

• Moreau Lake State Park Official Website
• New York State Police Official Statement on Missing Child
• Governor Kathy Hochul’s Official Twitter Account
• FBI Assistance in Missing Child Cases
• Amber Alert System in New York State
• Corinth Central School District Official Statement