State Patrol issues Missing Indigenous Person alert for Bellingham teen

16-year-old Charles Jefferson was last seen on Wednesday night in Bellingham.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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The Washington State Patrol has issued a missing indigenous person alert for 16-year-old Charles Jefferson, who was last seen on Wednesday night in Bellingham, Washington. Jefferson is described as 5 foot 10 inches tall, 155 pounds with black hair and brown eyes, and was likely wearing a black hoodie.

Why it matters

Missing person alerts, especially for vulnerable populations like indigenous youth, are critical to quickly mobilizing the community to help locate the individual and ensure their safety.

The details

According to the alert, Charles Jefferson was last seen at 10:30 p.m. on Wednesday, February 18 on Tulip Road in Bellingham. Authorities are urging anyone who sees Jefferson or knows of his whereabouts to immediately call 9-1-1.

  • Charles Jefferson was last seen at 10:30 p.m. on Wednesday, February 18.

The players

Charles Jefferson

A 16-year-old indigenous teen who was reported missing in Bellingham, Washington.

Washington State Patrol

The law enforcement agency that issued the missing person alert for Charles Jefferson.

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The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of swift action and community engagement when a vulnerable person, especially a youth, goes missing. Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any information that could help locate Charles Jefferson.