Missing/Runaway Teen In Cornelius Found Safe

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Cornelius Police say Samantha Mendez has been located and is safe, but would not provide any other details.

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CORNELIUS, NC — A donor is now offering a $5,000 reward for information in the search for 17-year-old Samantha Janet Mendez who was reported missing Thursday.

According to police, Mendez’s mother said that her daughter had run away from home between 7:15am and 3pm. She was last seen wearing grey sweatpants and a hooded pullover, and is described as a Hispanic female, 5 feet 2 inches tall, 130 pounds, with red/pink hair and brown eyes.

Officials say they think Mendez took additional clothing with her and may be carrying a burgundy floral patterned backpack.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Cornelius Police Department at 704-892-7773.