Sumter, SC – Authorities in Sumter County are asking for the public’s help to locate a missing 16-year-old girl who has not been seen since late December.
According to the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office, a runaway bulletin was issued Thursday, January 2, for Essence Melcenia Malear Morice, who was last seen at her residence on Somerset Drive on December 23, around 9:00 a.m.
Deputies say Essence was wearing a black shirt, black sweatpants, a black coat, and a white bonnet at the time she disappeared. She is described as having short black hair styled in two braids, brown eyes, standing approximately 4 feet 8 inches tall, and weighing about 113 pounds.
Investigators believe the teen may be with friends in Camden, South Carolina, though her current whereabouts remain unknown.
The Sheriff’s Office is urging anyone who may have seen Essence or has information about her location to come forward immediately. Tips can be submitted anonymously, and a reward may be available.
Anyone with information is asked to:
- Call 911 in emergencies or after hours
- Contact the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office at 803-436-2000 during business hours
- Submit tips to CrimeStoppers 24/7 at www.p3tips.com
The case is being investigated under Case Number 2505526 and is assigned to Investigator Sgt. O. Washington, who can also be reached at 803-436-2011 or owashington@sumtercountysc.gov.
Authorities stress that even small details could be critical in helping bring the teen home safely.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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