RANLO, N.C. — A growing search effort is underway in Gaston County as authorities and the community work urgently to locate Chloe Michelle Whitener, a 17-year-old girl who has been reported missing from her home in the Town of Ranlo. An Amber Alert was issued early Tuesday as law enforcement officials escalated the case, citing concerns for the teen’s safety and well-being.
Last Known Location
Chloe was last seen at a residence in the 300 block of Lewis Road, Ranlo, sometime between 9:00 p.m. Monday night and 9:00 a.m. Tuesday morning. According to her family, she was inside the home Monday evening but was discovered missing Tuesday morning. They immediately contacted authorities when they realized she had left under unknown circumstances.
Physical Description
Chloe is described as:
- Age: 17
- Height: 5 feet 2 inches
- Weight: Approximately 100 pounds
- Hair: Brown
- Eyes: Brown
- Last seen wearing: Black pants, a black hooded sweatshirt, and white Nike sneakers
Search and Investigation Efforts
The Town of Ranlo Police Department is leading the investigation and search operations, but the effort has rapidly grown into a multi-agency collaboration.
Beginning Tuesday morning, police and fire departments deployed drones, K-9 units, and foot patrols in and around the Lewis Road area. The perimeter was expanded by midday as no immediate signs of Chloe were found. As concern mounted, several regional agencies joined the search, including:
- Gaston County Sheriff’s Office
- City of Gastonia Police Department
- Gaston Emergency Medical Services (GEMS)
- North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI)
- Gaston County Office of Emergency Management and Fire Services
- Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office
- Lowell Police and Fire Departments
Community volunteers have also begun circulating flyers and spreading the word on social media platforms using hashtags like #FindChloeWhitener and #AmberAlertNC.
Public Appeal
Authorities are urging anyone who may have seen Chloe or has information about her whereabouts to immediately contact law enforcement. Even the smallest detail could prove critical.
- Call the Ranlo Police Department’s 911 non-emergency line at (704) 866-3320
- Tips can also be reported to your local police department or anonymously through North Carolina Crime Stoppers or the NCMEC (National Center for Missing & Exploited Children)
Family’s Plea
Chloe’s family is devastated and anxiously awaiting any information that might lead to her safe return. They describe her as a bright, loving, and kind-hearted teenager, with a quiet but spirited nature. They are especially worried due to the abrupt and uncharacteristic nature of her disappearance.
“We just want her home safe,” one family member said. “If you see her or hear anything — please help us. Chloe, if you can see this, we love you and we just want you to come back.”
Community Urged to Stay Alert
Residents in Ranlo and surrounding areas are asked to check home security cameras, doorbell footage, and remote properties or outbuildings for any signs of activity during the timeframe Chloe went missing. Even something that may seem insignificant could be valuable to investigators.
Please remain alert, vigilant, and engaged. Help bring Chloe Michelle Whitener home.