Updated 8/29, 3:42 pm: The Corvallis Police Department reports that Ava Carey has been located and is safe in a neighboring state. Ava had been missing since August 20, 2020 when she did not return home. In a release, Ava’s family and the Corvallis Police Department expressed thanks to the community for the outpouring of support and assistance in locating Ava.
Original story:
Police in Corvallis are expanding their efforts to find a 16-year-old girl who’s been missing for more than a week.
Ava Carey was last seen walking to a local park on August 20, and police say she has a recent history of suicide attempts. The agency has activated the Major Crimes Team, which brings in resources from other law enforcement agencies in the Willamette Valley.
Carey is five-feet, six-inches, and 107 pounds. “She has dyed, reddish-auburn hair that is shaved on one side," said Corvallis Police Chief Nick Hurley. "Ava needs medication which she does not have. She was also carrying an artistically-painted longboard skateboard.”
Police say it’s possible she’s left the Corvallis area, and are encouraging people to keep a look out up and down the I-5 corridor. Friends and family have organized search parties to comb the neighborhood around Carey’s home for any clues.
Corvallis police have a tip sheet for anyone with information about Carey's disappearance or current whereabouts. People can also call the Corvallis dispatch center at 541-766-6911.