North Dakota has seen an unusual rise in missing children and teenagers, with 12 reports filed in just 17 days. Nine remain unaccounted for, prompting concern across the state.
While missing youth is a nationwide issue, experts find the concentration in North Dakota especially troubling. Authorities say they have detected no links but remain cautious.
Among those missing are Dashira Chapple (14), Camila Juarez Perez (9), and several teens from Fargo, Grand Forks, and Ward County.
Steven Harstad of the Bureau of Criminal Investigation said such a spike is worrisome, adding that many runaways are not reported if they have a history of returning home quickly.
He warned that repeat runaway cases can escalate to dangerous situations unexpectedly.
In 2025, 30 people have been reported missing in the state, including 18 children. Indigenous youth make up a majority, bringing attention to challenges faced by tribal communities.
Missing Persons advocate Prairie Rose Seminole urged communities to see beyond the “runaway” label and recognize the dangers these youth face.
