Missing Michigan Teen Located Safe After Statewide Search

Michigan State Police confirm the safe recovery of 14-year-old Caidee Christine Yarbro following a multiday search.

Michigan teen disappearance prompts urgent search and public appeal

MARSHALL, MI — Michigan State Police have confirmed that Caidee Christine Yarbro, a 14-year-old student from Marshall Middle School, has been found safe after a public alert and regional law enforcement search. Her disappearance had triggered concern across Calhoun County and the broader Fifth District, which includes Allegan, Barry, Berrien, Branch, Cass, Kalamazoo, St. Joseph, and Van Buren counties.

On May 9, Caidee failed to return home after school. She was last seen wearing a black Marshall Cheer sweatshirt, black leggings, and black Crocs, possibly carrying a pink Nike backpack. She reportedly contacted friends via Snapchat around 5 p.m. from the Albion, Michigan, area, but didn’t share her exact location or confirm who she might be with.

Swift law enforcement response and public tips credited for her recovery

Authorities from the Marshall Post of the Michigan State Police issued a missing person alert shortly after confirming the teenager had not returned home. Her case was treated with urgency, though it was not classified as an Amber Alert.

The agency credited “tips from the public and diligent police work” for locating the teen safely. She has since been reunited with her family, though the agency did not disclose further details regarding where she was found or the circumstances of her disappearance.

No criminal investigation has been announced at this time, and law enforcement has not indicated if any persons of interest are being sought in relation to her absence.

Michigan State Police expand digital communication strategies

The use of Snapchat in this case highlights growing concerns about how technology plays a role in the movements and safety of minors. In recent years, Michigan State Police have increased their use of digital platforms and community alerts to aid in missing persons cases. The public’s role in submitting timely and accurate tips was once again instrumental.

Cases like Caidee’s reflect both the risks and the value of digital footprints. Law enforcement officials continue to urge families to maintain open lines of communication and monitor social media use closely.

Missing persons in Michigan still a concern, especially among youth

While this case ended with a positive outcome, juvenile disappearances remain a troubling issue across the state. According to the Michigan State Police’s 2023 Missing Persons Annual Report, more than 1,500 juveniles were reported missing statewide in the past year. While most are found quickly, some cases go unsolved for years.

Michigan residents are encouraged to report any suspicious behavior or missing person cases immediately. The Michigan State Police Marshall Post remains available for tips related to this case or others at 269-558-0500.

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