In a harrowing turn of events, over 100 people are fervently searching for 9-year-old Charlotte Sena, who went missing while camping with friends and family in Moreau Lake State Park, upstate New York. Governor Kathy Hochul revealed in a press conference that Charlotte vanished during a solo bike ride she embarked on after cycling a few loops with close friends.
The distressing incident unfolded around dinner time on Saturday evening when Charlotte, donning an orange tie-dyed Pokémon shirt, dark blue pants, and a grey bike helmet, decided to take one more solo ride. Alarming her parents, she failed to return after roughly 15 minutes, prompting an immediate search by family members and nearby campers.
Aviation and underwater resources have been deployed in the ongoing search, and an AMBER alert was issued Sunday morning, indicating the possibility of abduction. Lt. Colonel Richard L. Mazzone of the New York State Police reported that Charlotte’s bike was discovered in one of the park’s loops around 18.45 and two minutes later, her mother reported her missing.
The search, spanning over 18 hours, involves extensive efforts, including the utilisation of bloodhounds, drones, and technology experts analysing communications within the park. The Schenectady Fire Department, connected through Charlotte’s familial ties, is also actively participating in the search.
Governor Hochul expressed the gravity of the situation, urging anyone with information to contact 911. Charlotte, a fourth-grade student recently elected as a class officer, has left the community heartbroken. Moreau Lake State Park, sprawling over 4,600 acres, is located approximately 45 miles north of Albany, characterised by hardwood forests, pine stands, and rocky ridges.
As the search continues, hopes remain high for a reunion that could alleviate the collective heartbreak and anxiety gripping the state. Governor Hochul reiterated, “Hearts are broken here today in New York. Hopefully there will be a reunion, hopefully there will be a family that has been traumatised but is reunited. That is our prayer and our hope.”
