Tacoma teen missing for 5 weeks, family pleads for help

Samantha Ellison, 17, disappeared from her home in February and may have traveled out of state, authorities say.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 7:37pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a crumpled missing persons flyer with a young woman's photo, conveying the urgency and gritty investigation surrounding her disappearance.The search for a missing Tacoma teenager intensifies as her family pleads for the public's help in locating her.Tacoma Today

A 17-year-old girl from Tacoma, Washington named Samantha Ellison has been missing for five weeks, and the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children is asking the public for help to bring her home. Samantha's mother is extremely worried, saying this is out of character for her daughter who has never gone missing before.

Why it matters

Runaways and missing teens are an ongoing issue, with thousands of cases reported each year. Samantha's disappearance is concerning, as she may be in an unsafe situation or in need of assistance. The public's help in locating her could be crucial.

The details

Samantha Ellison, a 17-year-old from Tacoma, was last seen on February 22 when she went missing from her home. She is 5 feet, 1 inch tall and weighs approximately 110 pounds, with brown eyes and brown hair. Authorities believe she may still be in the local area or may have traveled out of state.

  • Samantha Ellison went missing on February 22, 2026.
  • It has been 5 weeks since Samantha's disappearance.

The players

Samantha Ellison

A 17-year-old girl from Tacoma, Washington who has been missing for 5 weeks.

National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC)

An organization that is asking the public for help in locating Samantha Ellison.

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What they’re saying

“Samantha, your family loves and misses you so much. We want you to come home and hope that you are safe.”

— Samantha Ellison's mother

What’s next

Authorities are continuing to search for Samantha Ellison and are asking anyone with information about her whereabouts to contact the Tacoma Police Department or the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing issue of missing and runaway teens, and the importance of public awareness and assistance in locating vulnerable youth who may be in unsafe situations. Samantha's family is desperate for her safe return, and the community's help could be vital.