Local authorities have called for assistance. (check in first comment
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from Stoke-on-Trent.Gracie left her home in Blurton at 11.30am on Sunday 6 April and was last seen on Ingestre Square at around 2.20pm that day. ‘She is described as being 5ft tall and having shoulder length mousey,
brown hair.‘It is believed that she may be wearing black leggings and a leopard-print top.‘Gracie is known to spend time in the Blurton area where many of her friends are.’Ingestre Square is located in the south west of Stoke-on-Trent, approximately three miles away from the city centre.
Urgent Hunt for Missing Schoolgirl, 12, Who Didn’t Come Home Last Night
Authorities and community members are in a state of growing concern after a 12-year-old girl failed to return home last night, prompting an urgent search effort and public appeal for information.
The missing girl, identified as Emily Carter, was last seen leaving Maple Grove Middle School in the early afternoon hours of Tuesday. Family members, friends, and police are desperately seeking answers as to her whereabouts, with fears for her safety mounting with each passing hour.
A Normal Day Turned Worrisome
Emily’s mother, Sophie Carter, said her daughter had attended school as usual that morning. “She was happy, she had her favorite breakfast — pancakes with berries,” Sophie recalled. “We talked about a school art project she was excited about. Nothing seemed unusual at all.”
According to school records and witnesses, Emily left school at approximately 3:15 p.m. She was expected to take her usual short walking route home, which should have taken no more than 15 minutes. But by 4:00 p.m., when Emily still hadn’t arrived home, her mother grew concerned.
“At first, I thought maybe she stopped by a friend’s house without letting me know, but when I called around, no one had seen her,” Sophie said tearfully. “I just knew something wasn’t right.”
After several hours of searching and unanswered phone calls, Sophie contacted local police at 7:45 p.m., officially reporting Emily missing.
What We Know So Far
Police have confirmed that Emily was last captured on a residential security camera walking down Chestnut Lane, a street she frequently used on her way home from school. The footage, time-stamped at 3:22 p.m., shows Emily walking alone, wearing her school uniform — a navy skirt, white blouse, and gray jacket. She was carrying her backpack and appeared calm.
Detective Mark Russell, leading the investigation, shared during a press briefing, “This is very much an active and urgent case. At this time, we have no evidence suggesting that Emily intended to run away. All indications point to this being highly out of character.”
Police have conducted door-to-door inquiries in the neighborhood, spoken with friends and classmates, and searched local parks, alleyways, and vacant lots within a two-mile radius. Nearby rivers, wooded areas, and train stations have also been checked.
“We’re asking anyone who may have seen Emily or anything unusual in the area between 3:00 and 4:00 p.m. yesterday to come forward immediately,” said Detective Russell.
Community Rallying Together
As word of Emily’s disappearance spread, the community quickly mobilized. Dozens of neighbors, parents, and school staff members joined in a late-night search, scouring local streets, playgrounds, and wooded areas with flashlights and printed flyers.
Lisa Morgan, a neighbor and friend of the family, said, “Everyone is heartbroken. Emily is a sweet, kind girl — she’s polite, smart, and always says hello when she passes by. We’re all praying she’s safe and comes home soon.”
Local businesses have also gotten involved. Several shops in the town center have displayed missing person posters in their windows, and taxi companies, delivery drivers, and public transport operators have been notified to be on alert.
Schools in the district have been advised to remind students to travel in groups and report any suspicious activity.
Family Plea
Emily’s parents issued a heartfelt plea during a press conference early this morning.
Fighting back tears, Sophie Carter said, “Emily, sweetheart, if you can hear this or if someone sees you — please come home. We love you so much, and we miss you. You are not in trouble. We just want you to be safe.”
Emily’s father, Daniel Carter, added, “If anyone out there knows something — anything at all — we beg you to contact the police. Our little girl means the world to us.”
Police Appeal for Information
Authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant and report any potential sightings or unusual activity in the area. They’re especially asking for:
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Dashcam footage from drivers in the Maple Grove area between 3:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. yesterday.
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CCTV footage from businesses and homes near Emily’s walking route.
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Witness accounts of anyone acting suspiciously, especially near Chestnut Lane or local parks.
Detective Russell emphasized the importance of the community’s role in the investigation, saying, “Someone out there knows something, and even the smallest piece of information can help.”
The police tip line is open 24 hours at (555) 234-5678 and tips can also be submitted anonymously online via the department’s official website.
A Town Holding Its Breath
As the hours stretch on, the town of Maple Grove remains gripped by anxiety, holding onto hope that Emily will be found safe and brought home to her family.
The search continues today with increased police presence, volunteer groups combing new areas, and social media posts circulating Emily’s photo and description nationwide. Local authorities have indicated they are working closely with neighboring counties and state law enforcement agencies, ensuring that no lead goes unchecked.
Emily Carter is described as:
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Age: 12
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Height: 4’11”
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Build: Slim
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Hair: Light brown, shoulder-length
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Eyes: Hazel
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Clothing: Navy school skirt, white blouse, gray jacket, and black shoes
Anyone with information is urged not to hesitate in reaching out.
Final Thoughts
While the circumstances surrounding Emily’s disappearance remain unclear, what is certain is the unwavering strength and unity of her community. Strangers have turned into search partners, and neighbors have opened their doors and hearts in the hope of bringing a little girl home.
As Detective Russell put it, “We remain hopeful. We will not stop searching until we find Emily.”
In times of crisis, communities often reveal their truest character — and Maple Grove, today, is a town standing together.
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