NC teen vanished nearly 5 years ago, tip leads to search of a river, woods in Cumberland Co.
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, N.C. (WTVD) -- The Cumberland County Sheriff's Office released new information in the disappearance of a high school student from nearly five years ago.
The student, Laniyah Whitted after being dropped off at Cape Fear High School on November 16, 2021.
She was reported missing seven days later on November 23.
The sheriff's office tells ABC11 they will conduct a two-day search of the Cape Fear River along Deep Creek Road and the surrounding wooded areas on Tuesday and Wednesday. The search operation will involve members of the Sheriff's Office Search and Rescue Team, K-9 Team, Drone Team, detectives, and patrol deputies.
The sheriff's office tells ABC11's Penelope Lopez that a tip and evidence led them to the area.
Anyone with information regarding Laniyah Whitted's whereabouts is urged to call 911 or contact Lieutenant R. Brinkley with the Cumberland County Sheriff's Office at 910-677-5462 or Crime Stoppers at 910-483-TIPS-8477 You can remain anonymous tips can also be submitted online by visiting the Crime Stoppers website.
The Cumberland County Sheriff's Office remains committed to locating Laniyah and encourages anyone with information, no matter how small it may seem, to come forward.
Traffic Alert
Drivers traveling in the area may experience minor traffic delays on Deep Creek Road. The sheriff's office is asking drivers to use caution and remain alert, as law enforcement personnel will be working near roadways throughout the search.
