9-Year-Old Charlotte Sena Found Safe After Days-Long Search in New York Park

Charlotte Sena, the 9-year-old girl who disappeared last weekend at Moreau Lake State Park in Saratoga County, has been safely located, the New York State Police confirmed on Monday evening. While details surrounding the circumstances of her discovery are still limited, authorities mentioned that a suspect has been apprehended. The investigation remains active.

The extensive search for Sena, which spanned over three days, encompassed more than 46 linear miles of the 6,250-acre state park. As of Monday afternoon, approximately 400 search-and-rescue professionals from various local, state, and federal agencies, including the FBI, had participated. They were joined by 34 volunteer fire departments and private search groups. State-of-the-art equipment, such as drones, bloodhounds, and an airboat, aided the efforts. The Federal Aviation Administration had placed a temporary flight restriction over the park to safeguard the operations.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul expressed immense relief at Sena’s safe return. “We are overjoyed at the news that Charlotte Sena has been located safely this evening after an intense days-long search,” Hochul said in a statement. She extended her gratitude to all the agencies and personnel involved.

Prior to her discovery, Sena was last spotted at 6:15 p.m. on Saturday while cycling at the park. Concerns were raised about a potential abduction, leading to the issuance of an Amber Alert. The circumstances became particularly distressing for the family when her bike was found abandoned by her mother at approximately 6:45 p.m. the same day.

During a previous news conference, Gov. Hochul described the situation as “every parent’s nightmare.” She mentioned that Sena had been enjoying a bike ride with friends in the campground during dinnertime on Sunday. After deciding to take one last solo lap, she vanished.

Authorities have yet to disclose more about the ongoing investigation or the suspect’s identity in custody. Meanwhile, Moreau Lake State Park remains closed to the public.