The city of Wichita remains on high alert as the search intensifies for 17-year-old Jaelynn Kittrell, who has now been missing for more than a week. What began as a routine evening has turned into a desperate and growing effort involving family, friends, law enforcement, and community volunteers, all united by a singular goal: to bring Jaelynn home safely.

Jaelynn was last seen at approximately 6:45 p.m. on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, near her neighborhood on the east side of Wichita. According to her family, she left home with no indication that anything was wrong, and the last known communication from her phone was shortly after she was seen leaving.

Since then, there have been no confirmed sightings, no social media activity, and no contact with friends or relatives. Her phone appears to have been turned off or disabled, and law enforcement officials have reported that they have not been able to track her via GPS or triangulation methods.

Growing Concern

The disappearance has sent shockwaves through the local community. Candlelight vigils have been held, flyers have been posted throughout the city, and online campaigns have been launched in the hope that someone will come forward with information.

“Jaelynn is a sweet, smart, and vibrant young girl. She has never done anything like this before,” said her mother, Michelle Kittrell, in an emotional statement during a press conference on Monday. “We are begging anyone who may have seen her or knows anything to come forward. Even the smallest detail could be crucial.”

Friends and classmates describe Jaelynn as kind-hearted, artistic, and ambitious, with dreams of studying psychology after high school. She had recently been looking forward to prom and preparing for college applications. “This is completely out of character for her,” said one of her close friends, who asked not to be named. “We just want her back safe.”

Law Enforcement Efforts

The Wichita Police Department has classified Jaelynn’s disappearance as a high-priority missing persons case. Officers have conducted ground searches, canvassed neighborhoods, and reviewed surveillance footage from nearby businesses and residences. K-9 units and drones have also been deployed in the search effort.

Authorities have not yet confirmed any signs of foul play, but they continue to explore all possibilities, including the potential of an abduction or trafficking scenario.

“We are following up on every lead, no matter how small,” said Wichita Police Captain Laura Jennings. “We’re working closely with federal and state agencies, and we encourage anyone with information to contact us immediately. Time is critical.”

An anonymous tip line has been set up by Crime Stoppers, and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children has added Jaelynn to their database. A $10,000 reward is being offered for any information that leads to her safe return.

Community Mobilization

The Wichita community has rallied behind the Kittrell family, with hundreds joining search parties and sharing her photo across social media. Local businesses have donated supplies, and area churches have opened their doors for prayer vigils and support meetings.

“This community does not give up on its children,” said Reverend Marcus Hill of New Hope Church, where one of the vigils was held. “We will keep searching, praying, and supporting Jaelynn’s family until she is found.”

Description and How to Help

Jaelynn Kittrell is described as 5 feet 6 inches tall, weighing approximately 125 pounds, with long dark brown hair and brown eyes. She was last seen wearing a gray hoodie, black leggings, and white sneakers.

Anyone with information on her whereabouts is urged to call the Wichita Police Department at (316) 268-4111 or Crime Stoppers at (316) 267-2111. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through the See Something, Say Something app.

As the days stretch on, the urgency only grows. The Kittrell family remains hopeful but knows that every moment counts. They continue to ask for prayers, support, and above all, vigilance.

“We won’t stop,” said Michelle Kittrell. “We will do whatever it takes to bring our daughter home.”

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