By Alex
On Oct 24, 2025
Spokane Valley (99206) — Authorities are searching for a 9-year-old girl who went missing after her mother returned home from a cross-country drive without the child. The Spokane County Sheriff’s Office says the mother told investigators the girl was “staying with relatives,” a claim deputies have not been able to verify. The FBI is assisting local and state law enforcement as the probe expands across multiple states.
Sheriff Daniel Carter urged the public to come forward with any information: “We’re doing everything possible to locate this child.” Capt. Megan O’Neill of the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office also asked anyone who saw the mother’s vehicle or the child to contact investigators immediately.
Key details
– Missing: 9-year-old girl (authorities have released a photo).
– Area: Spokane Valley (99206), near East Sprague Avenue and Pines Road.
– Lead: Mother questioned by detectives; she said the child “stayed with relatives.”
– Investigation: Spokane County Sheriff’s Office, with FBI and other agencies; multi-state leads are being pursued.
– Public appeal: Tips requested from anyone who may have seen the mother, her vehicle, or the child.
Community response
Neighbors and local business owners say the disappearance has unsettled the neighborhood. “Everyone’s talking about it — we just hope she’s found safe,” said Linda Harper, who owns a nearby store. Social media posts and photos shared by residents have circulated as people try to piece together the child’s last known movements.
What investigators are doing
Officials say detectives are reviewing travel records, communications, and tips from across state lines. The pattern in this case has similarities to other cross-state disappearance incidents linked to family travel or custody disputes, authorities say, and investigators are following multiple leads.
How to help
– Spokane County Sheriff’s Tip Line: 509-477-5980
– National Center for Missing & Exploited Children: 1-800-843-5678
Capt. O’Neill emphasized the value of even small details: “If you saw the mother’s vehicle on her route, or noticed anything unusual, please contact investigators immediately.”
Update log
– 11:10 AM: Mother questioned by detectives; she claims the child “stayed with relatives.”
– 3:25 PM: FBI joins search; investigation expands to multiple states.
– 7:45 PM: Authorities release photo of the missing 9-year-old and request nationwide assistance.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office tip line at 509-477-5980 or the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children at 1-800-843-5678.