(Picture of Madelyn Allen, provided by Snow College)
Madelyn Allen found alive, Snow College announced on social media Saturday night that the missing student was found safe.
EPHRAIM — The family of a missing Snow College student is breaking their silence, pleading with the public to help find her. Meanwhile, investigators say they’re doing everything they can to find the 19-year-old woman missing since Monday.
Madelyn Allen was last seen leaving her apartment in Snow Hall Monday night. She was seen carrying a white plastic bag, wearing a white fleece jacket, a dark shirt and flat shoes and she wasn’t properly dressed for the freezing cold.
Her uncle and family spokesman, Jacob Allen, read a statement from her parents.
“Dear friends, from our family to yours, and as Maddie’s parents, we are asking for your help,” he said.
Allen said, Madelyn has been dealing with challenges her entire life after being born prematurely and suffering a severe brain bleed. However, she has been able to participate in many school activities, including the choir, and she has been able to work as a lifeguard.
The Allen’s believe mental health may be a significant factor into her disappearance.
“We believe that she’s facing a major mental health crisis, and she needs our help,” he said.
Allen spoke to Madelyn, directly, telling her that help is available for her, and many people across the country can relate to the problems she faces. The family has created a website and a Facebook page dedicated to finding her.
“If greater awareness of Maddie’s story and a picture helps to bring her home, we ask that you please share this with everyone you can,” Allen said.
Investigators say they’re following every lead that comes into their office, and they’re encouraging anyone who may know where she is to contact police. Snow College Police Chief Derek Walk says the Sanpete County Sheriff’s Office and the FBI are assisting in the search.
“They often provide this assistance to law enforcement agencies like ours,” Walk said.
Investigators believe this is an isolated incident, and the rest of the student population isn’t in danger.