The community of DeSoto, Texas can breathe a sigh of relief today as the DeSoto Police Department has confirmed that 12-year-old Itzel Lujano Gaitan, who was reported missing earlier this week, has been found safe. The police department took to social media to announce the news, expressing their gratitude towards the citizens of DeSoto and the surrounding areas for their assistance. "UPDATE - the juvenile has been located safe and has been returned to her mother. Thank you for your help citizens of DeSoto and the surrounding area," read the update from the DeSoto Police Department's Facebook post.
Before her safe recovery, Itzel was last seen on camera footage, leaving her home on Southpointe Drive in DeSoto at approximately 7:55 PM on Sunday. She was described as a Hispanic female, 5'5" tall, weighing about 170 lbs, dressed in a red long-sleeved shirt, black Christmas pajama pants, and gray Crocs.
Police officials have not released further details regarding the circumstances of Itzel's disappearance or how she was found. They did, however, emphasize the role that community involvement played in ensuring Itzel's return to safety. Engaged citizens shared the police department's post on social media, spreading the word and keeping an eye out for any signs of the missing child. This collective effort proved to be a vital component in the positive outcome of this case.
