MOUNT VERNON, WA – In a desperate appeal to the public, a Washington state mother is seeking help in finding her 14-year-old daughter, who disappeared under the suspicion of meeting a man she had been chatting with online.
Ella Jones, a resident of Mount Vernon, was last sighted at her home on North 20th Street on the evening of January 5. It is believed she left later that night or in the early dawn of January 6, which is when her mother, Sarah Merrill, reported her as missing.
Merrill recalls a seemingly normal evening before Ella’s disappearance, including a heartwarming exchange of affection before Ella left the room. The following morning, Merrill was met with the shocking reality of Ella’s absence and the noticeable absence of some of her belongings.
Merrill noted that Ella had taken several items with her, suggesting she had planned her departure. Merrill immediately sought answers from Ella’s friends, who shared her concern. Merrill expressed that it was highly unusual for Ella to cut off all communication via phone or social media.
Ella left a note expressing her love for her mother, but that was the last Merrill heard from her. The lack of communication is out of character for Ella, causing worry among those who know her.
Ella’s friends revealed to Merrill that she had been chatting with an older man online, primarily on platforms like Discord. Merrill had previously disciplined Ella for this interaction by temporarily confiscating her phone, but she confessed she was oblivious to the seriousness of their relationship.
Ella’s friends believe she is with the man she met online, although their stories have slight discrepancies, causing some confusion. The Mount Vernon Police Department is actively involved in the search for Ella, and her electronics have been seized for forensic examination.
There have been unverified sightings of Ella in various parts of Washington, mostly in the Everett area. Ella is described as a white female, 5 feet 5 inches tall, with brown hair and weighing about 135 pounds. She was last seen wearing a black hoodie, multicolored pajama pants, and black Nike Air Force shoes. She is also believed to have packed extra clothing in a backpack.
Authorities are urging anyone who may spot Ella to immediately contact 911. Anyone with information on Ella’s whereabouts is urged to contact the Skagit County Dispatch at 360-428-3211.