The FBI, alongside the Maine State Police, is appealing to the public for help in finding 14-year-old Stefanie Damron from New Sweden, Maine, who has been unaccounted for since September 24, 2024.
On Monday, authorities revealed a reward of up to $15,000 for information leading to her safe recovery or the apprehension and prosecution of those responsible for her disappearance.
Damron was last observed entering the woods near her residence on West Road. At that time, she was dressed in blue jeans, a long-sleeved blue shirt, and black Harley Davidson hiking boots. She is identified as a white female with green eyes and shoulder-length brown hair, approximately 5 feet tall and weighing around 130 pounds.
Being homeschooled with restricted social media access, her case has initiated a comprehensive search and investigation, according to a press release from the FBI.
“The FBI is hopeful that this reward will motivate anyone with information about Stefanie’s location to step forward,” stated Jodi Cohen, special agent in charge of the FBI Boston Division.
“Every piece of information, regardless of its size, could prove vital. Stefanie’s family is desperate for answers, and we are fully dedicated to collaborating with our law enforcement partners to utilize all investigative resources to locate her and bring her back home,” Cohen added.
Maine State Police Colonel Bill Ross underscored the necessity of public involvement.
“The Maine State Police is unwavering in our investigation into Stefanie’s disappearance. Every lead, no matter how minor, is being diligently pursued to find her,” Ross said.
“We sincerely appreciate the FBI’s assistance as we continue to implore anyone with information to come forward. Your tip could be crucial in solving this case and providing closure for Stefanie’s family,” he noted.
The FBI’s Child Abduction Rapid Deployment (CARD) Team, which specializes in cases of missing children, was activated shortly after Stefanie was reported missing. Together with the Maine State Police, the CARD team has carried out extensive investigative measures, including community canvassing, examining video footage, and conducting grid searches with canine units. Their investigation has expanded outside Maine, tracking leads across the United States and Canada.
Despite these extensive efforts, Stefanie is still missing.
Investigators have performed numerous interviews and explored multiple leads, but no significant breakthroughs have surfaced.
Authorities encourage the public to review and disseminate Stefanie’s updated missing person poster, which can be found at https://www.fbi.gov/wanted/kidnap/stefanie-damron.
Anyone with information regarding Stefanie’s disappearance is urged to contact the Maine State Police Houlton Barracks at 1-800-824-2261 or 207-532-5400. Tips can also be sent to the FBI by calling 1-800-CALL-FBI or visiting tips.fbi.gov.
