Authorities in Wilmington, North Carolina, are urgently searching for 15-year-old Dionna DeBose, who has been missing since October 31, 2025. Loved ones and law enforcement are pleading for public assistance as concern for the teen’s safety grows.
What Happened
According to the Wilmington Police Department, Dionna DeBose last had contact with a family member on Halloween night and has not been seen or heard from since. Her disappearance was reported after repeated attempts to reach her failed, prompting an immediate search and community alert.
Police have not yet released information regarding what Dionna was wearing at the time of her disappearance. Investigators say they are following multiple leads and are urging anyone who may have seen the teenager or has knowledge of her whereabouts to come forward.
Authorities describe this as an active and ongoing investigation, emphasizing that time is critical in missing person cases involving minors.
Who Is Dionna DeBose?
Dionna DeBose, 15, is described as a caring and outgoing young girl with a bright future ahead of her. She is known among friends and family for her kind-hearted nature and love for helping others. Those close to her say her disappearance is out of character and deeply alarming.
She is described as being 5 feet 6 inches tall, weighing around 160 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes.
Search Efforts and Investigation
The Wilmington Police Department has mobilized all available resources in the search for Dionna. Officers are canvassing neighborhoods, checking public transit stations, and reviewing surveillance footage from the area where she was last believed to be seen.
Police are also working with national databases and missing persons organizations to widen the search across state lines, should she have traveled outside Wilmington.
Community members are being urged to stay alert and check security cameras, home footage, and public areas for any potential sightings.
Public and Social Media Reactions
The disappearance of Dionna DeBose has sparked a wave of concern and support on social media. Friends, classmates, and community members have been sharing her photo and the official missing person alert with the hashtag #FindDionnaDeBose, calling for solidarity and awareness.
Many locals have volunteered to assist in search efforts, distributing flyers and sharing information online. Parents across Wilmington are also reminding their children to stay safe and alert, highlighting the importance of community vigilance.
Official Statements and What Happens Next
In an official statement, Wilmington Police urged anyone with even the smallest detail to come forward, stating:
“We are doing everything possible to bring Dionna home safely. If you know something — no matter how insignificant it may seem — please contact us immediately.”
Anyone with information about Dionna DeBose’s whereabouts is urged to call 911 or contact the Wilmington Police Department at 910-343-3600.
Authorities stress that all tips will be treated seriously and that confidentiality can be maintained for those who wish to remain anonymous.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
