Maria Acedo was the type of teenager who had the same routine every day at school.
Everything changed when the routine went awry on a Tuesday afternoon.
Maria did not have a cellphone, so it was even more difficult for her family to be in touch with her. Every passing hour increased their Anxiety Levels.
The Yuma Police were actively working in collaboration with state and tribal authorities, pursuing all possible leads.
They also encouraged the public to assist them in their search by not spreading any rumors but confirmed facts.
Late Tuesday, relief finally came. The police confirmed that Maria Acedo had been found safe.
Officer Hayato Johnson thanked the community for its rapid and proactive assistance.
For Maria’s family, the days of long fear were followed by days of gratitude.
There was initial horror in the face of the disappearance, and then there was redemption through the swift solidarity of the community in bringing her back home.
