Cold and Missing: Sofia Juarez

On February 4, 2003, 4-year-old Sofia Juarez went missing in Kennewick, Washington, just hours before her 5th birthday. She had been playing at home with her uncle before asking to go to the store with her grandmother's boyfriend, Jose. But when Jose returned home without her, the family’s frantic search revealed no sign of Sofia. Despite a statewide Amber Alert—the first of its kind in Washington—the search for Sofia, including the use of bloodhounds and extensive neighborhood canvassing, yielded no leads. Over the weeks, the investigation revealed conflicting details, including a witness who reported seeing Sofia being led away by a suspect to a van shortly before her disappearance. Various suspect vehicles and individuals were investigated, yet Sofia’s whereabouts remain unknown. In the years since, the case has included numerous tips, a failed search of a local farm, and even a viral TikTok video that briefly reignited hope. As of late 2024, Sofia’s case remains unsolved, with authorities continuing to investigate every tip. The Juarez family, still seeking answers, continues to hold out hope for Sofia’s safe return.

***If you know thing about the disapperance of SOfia Juarez - or her whereabouts today - please call special investigator Al Wehner at 509-582-1331***

Or you can leave a tip online using the following form:

https://www.go2kennewick.com/FormCenter/Police-Dept-Forms-10/Leave-a-Tip-on-Sofia-Juarez-142

Sources:

The Oregonian, Tri-City Herald, The Columbian, Longview Daily News, The Spokesman-Review, The News Tribune, Statesman Journal, and The Kennewick Police Department Website

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