Officials in Hickory breathed a sigh of relief yesterday as Mikala Marie DePew, who had been reported missing, was found safe that afternoon. A Missing Endangered Alert issued shortly before her discovery was canceled, according to QC News. The 25-year-old had last been seen at 3060 11th Ave. Drive SE. Concerns were heightened due to DePew's cognitive impairment and the unclear circumstances of her disappearance. The Hickory Police Department quickly initiated a search for the 5-foot-3 woman, who was last seen wearing white pants and a blue shirt.
This incident drew considerable attention across local channels, with the North Carolina Center for Missing Persons swiftly issuing an alert, as reported by WBTV, which was just as quickly rescinded once DePew was accounted for safe and sound.
Those looking for additional insights or wishing to relay information are encouraged to reach out to Jena Halcomb with the Hickory Police Department at 828-328-5551, as mentioned in the announcement from WSOC-TV.
