Police Search for Missing 12-Year-Old Girl in Watsonville

Authorities ask public for help locating Lisset Leal Basurto, who was last seen Friday morning.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 4:04am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a child's shoe or backpack against a pitch-black background, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash, creating a stark, gritty, investigative aesthetic.The search for a missing 12-year-old girl in Watsonville underscores the urgency of community cooperation with law enforcement in locating vulnerable individuals.Watsonville Today

The Santa Cruz County Sheriff's Office is seeking the public's assistance in finding a 12-year-old girl named Lisset Leal Basurto who was last seen on Friday morning in the College Road area of Watsonville, California. A clothing description for Basurto was not provided by authorities.

Why it matters

Missing children cases are always a serious concern, especially when the child is considered at-risk. The sheriff's office is urging the community to check surveillance footage and report any information that could help locate Basurto and ensure her safe return.

The details

Lisset Leal Basurto, a 12-year-old girl, was last seen on Friday morning in the College Road area of Watsonville, California. The Santa Cruz County Sheriff's Office has not provided a clothing description for Basurto. Authorities are asking anyone who has seen Basurto or has information about her whereabouts to contact the sheriff's office at 831-471-1121. Residents in the area with surveillance cameras are also being asked to check their footage and report any relevant information to investigators.

  • Lisset Leal Basurto was last seen on Friday morning.

The players

Santa Cruz County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency leading the search for the missing 12-year-old girl.

Lisset Leal Basurto

A 12-year-old girl who was last seen on Friday morning in Watsonville, California.

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What’s next

The Santa Cruz County Sheriff's Office is urging the public to contact them at 831-471-1121 with any information about Lisset Leal Basurto's whereabouts.

The takeaway

This missing persons case highlights the importance of community vigilance and cooperation with law enforcement to help locate vulnerable individuals, especially children, who may be in danger.