Authorities Seek the Public’s Help in Locating Missing Teenager in Los Angeles
Los Angeles, CA – Concerns are mounting for the wellbeing of a 13-year-old girl who vanished from South Los Angeles on Friday night, prompting authorities to activate an Ebony Alert. C’mya Zacheary was last seen around 9:30 p.m. near the bustling intersection of West Washington Boulevard and La Brea Avenue. As hours turn into days, investigators are urging anyone with information to come forward.
Zacheary is described as a Black female, standing at 5 feet 4 inches tall with a weight of approximately 110 pounds. She has black hair and brown eyes, and was last seen wearing a dark grey jacket, blue jeans, and black shoes.
"Anyone with any information regarding her whereabouts was urged to call the Los Angeles Police Department’s Wilshire Station at 213-473-0476, the LAPD’s Missing Persons Unit at 877-275-5273 or during non-business hours or weekends at 877-527-3247."
Those who wish to remain anonymous can reach Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477 or visit lacrimestoppers.org.
The Ebony Alert, a localized public safety tool launched in California, focuses on missing Black children and young adults like Zacheary.
The disappearance of a child is always a heart-wrenching event, and the community is on edge hoping for Zacheary’s safe return. As time passes, the urgency to find her intensifies. Authorities are relying on the public’s vigilance and willingness to share any information, no matter how seemingly insignificant.
## Missing Teen C’mya Zacheary: Community Rallies Behind Ebony Alert System
**Los Angeles, CA** – The disappearance of 13-year-old C’mya Zacheary from South Los Angeles has sent shockwaves through the community. Last seen Friday night near West Washington Boulevard and La Brea Avenue, the young Black girl has triggered an Ebony alert, a localized system designed to amplify awareness of missing Black youth. As authorities intensify their search, experts weigh in on the importance of rapid response, community engagement, and the role of specialized alert systems like Ebony Alerts.
Today, we’re joined by **Sergeant Maria Sanchez**, a veteran investigator with the Los Angeles Police Department’s Missing persons Unit, and **Dr. Angela Ramirez**,a sociologist specializing in marginalized communities and youth safety at the University of California,Los Angeles.
### “every Second Counts”: The Importance of Early Intervention
**World Today News:** Sergeant Sanchez, can you shed some light on the critical early hours following a disappearance like C’mya’s?
**Sergeant Sanchez:** Absolutely. The first 48 hours are absolutely crucial. We frequently enough find that swift action and public awareness significantly increase the likelihood of a safe return.
**World Today News:** Dr. Ramirez, from your perspective as a sociologist, what are some of the unique challenges faced by families of missing Black children?
**Dr. Ramirez:** Sadly, there’s a long history of disparities in how missing persons cases are handled based on race. The media sometimes doesn’t provide the same level of coverage, and there can be implicit biases even within law enforcement.That’s why tools like the Ebony Alert are so vital – they shine a light on these cases and mobilize communities.
### The Power of Community: Engaging Neighbors and Social Media
**World Today News:** Sergeant Sanchez,how can the community actively participate in assisting the search for C’mya?
**Sergeant Sanchez:** We urge everyone to remain vigilant. Check your home security footage, share C’mya’s photo and information on social media, and if you see anything suspicious, contact us immediately. Even seemingly insignificant details can be helpful.
**World Today News:** Dr. Ramirez, what’s the role of social media in these situations? can it be a double-edged sword?
**Dr. Ramirez:** Social media can be an incredibly powerful tool for amplifying awareness and mobilizing grassroots efforts. However, it’s crucial to rely on verified information from authorities and avoid spreading unconfirmed rumors, which can hinder the inquiry.
### Looking Ahead: Proactive Measures and Systemic Change
**World Today News:** Sergeant Sanchez, what steps are being taken to prevent similar situations in the future?
**Sergeant Sanchez:** We’re actively working with community partners to raise awareness about safety measures for children and teens. Additionally, the LAPD is actively improving its data collection and analysis techniques to better understand patterns and address disparities in missing persons cases.
**World Today news:** Dr.Ramirez, what systemic changes are needed to ensure all missing children receive equal attention and resources?
**Dr.ramirez:** We need continued investment in community-based organizations that focus on youth empowerment and safety.We also need to address the underlying social and economic factors that contribute to vulnerability among Black youth.
**The search for C’mya Zacheary continues. We urge anyone with information to contact the Los Angeles Police Department immediately. let’s work together to bring C’mya home safely.
Sharing this story can help raise awareness. For more information about missing persons cases and how to help, visit the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children website at missingkids.org.**
