14-year-old Raniesha Resto vanished near her school; Philadelphia Police suspect abduction, seek public assistance

Philadelphia Police have launched an urgent appeal for assistance in locating 14-year-old Raniesha Resto, who vanished under suspicious circumstances Thursday afternoon. Resto was last seen near K and Venango streets in Kensington, prompting concerns she may have been abducted.

The police were alerted after an unsettling incident during which Resto’s phone call with her mother abruptly ended. This occurred just before she disappeared while walking home from school, sparking immediate fear for her safety. “Raniesha was talking with her mom on the phone when the call dropped. This is highly concerning and suggests she could be in danger,” a police spokesperson commented.

Authorities described Resto as approximately 5’2″ tall, with black hair and brown eyes. At the time of her disappearance, she was wearing a navy-coloured shirt, navy pants, a black Nike hooded sweatshirt, white socks, and black Nike shoes.

The search effort includes multiple units within the Philadelphia Police Department, and officials are canvassing the area where Resto was last seen. The police are examining surveillance footage from nearby locations and have been conducting interviews with potential witnesses in the area.

The community response has been significant, with local residents and businesses aiding in the distribution of flyers and sharing information on social media. “We’re doing everything we can to find Raniesha and bring her home safely. Community support is crucial in cases like this,” the spokesperson added.

Police are urging anyone with information, no matter how minor it may seem, to come forward. Tips can be submitted by calling the Philadelphia Police at 215-686-TIPS (8477), texting a tip to the same number, or submitting information online through the police department’s confidential tips portal.

The situation has heightened awareness around the safety of children in the community, especially as they commute to and from school. “It’s a parent’s worst nightmare. We’re hoping for Raniesha’s safe return and are working tirelessly to ensure that outcome,” said an officer involved in the search