WICHITA, Kan. — Urgent pleas continue from family, friends, and law enforcement as the search intensifies for 17-year-old Jaelynn Kittrell, who has now been missing for over a week. The teenager was last seen at approximately 6:45 p.m. on April 22, 2025, in the city of Wichita, and since then, no confirmed sightings or contact have been reported.
Jaelynn’s disappearance has left her loved ones deeply distressed, and authorities are asking the public to remain vigilant and come forward with any information, no matter how small, that might aid in locating her.
Description
- Name: Jaelynn Kittrell
- Age: 17
- Missing From: Wichita, Kansas
- Date Missing: April 22, 2025
- Height: 5’1”
- Weight: 115 pounds
- Hair Color: Red/Auburn
- Eye Color: Hazel
- Distinguishing Marks: None known at this time
Jaelynn was reportedly last seen in a residential area of Wichita but did not return home as expected, prompting immediate concern and the filing of a missing person report. Her disappearance is currently under investigation by the Wichita Police Department, in coordination with the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC).
Family and Community Appeal
Jaelynn’s family is devastated by her sudden disappearance and is desperately seeking answers. They describe her as a kind-hearted, creative, and intelligent young woman who enjoys music, journaling, and spending time with her younger siblings. She had recently been making plans for the summer and discussing her future, which makes her vanishing especially troubling.
“There isn’t a moment that goes by where we’re not thinking about her, praying for her safety,” a family member shared in a public statement. “We just want her home. If anyone has seen her, please — speak up.”
Authorities Believe Jaelynn May Still Be in the Area
At this time, investigators believe Jaelynn may still be in the Wichita area or nearby. However, they are not ruling out the possibility that she may have left voluntarily or could be with someone she knows. There is no evidence of foul play currently, but authorities emphasize that time is of the essence in locating missing teens.
Search teams have canvassed the area where Jaelynn was last seen and are reviewing surveillance footage, interviewing friends and acquaintances, and following up on leads submitted by the public.
How to Help
If you have any information regarding the whereabouts of Jaelynn Kittrell, you are urged to contact the following:
- Wichita Police Department: (316) 268-4111
- Kansas Bureau of Investigation: (785) 296-4017
- Submit a tip online via the KBI website or NCMEC tipline.
Anonymous tips are welcome and can be submitted confidentially.
Please share Jaelynn’s photo and description on social media platforms, local community groups, or with anyone who may be able to help. The more eyes on this case, the greater the chance of bringing Jaelynn home.
A Message from the Community
In situations like these, every second counts. Seventeen-year-old girls don’t just vanish without a trace, and the Kittrell family is relying on the power of community, compassion, and awareness to find their daughter. Her room remains untouched. Her loved ones continue to wait.
Let’s bring Jaelynn Kittrell home.