LIVINGSTON, TX – A frantic search is underway in Texas for an 11-year-old girl, Audrii Cunningham, who disappeared without a trace on the morning of February 15. The last sighting of Audrii was in the early morning hours near her father’s home in Livingston, Texas, as she typically embarked on her walk to the school bus stop. However, she never boarded the bus that day and did not show up at school.
Texas Department of Public Safety has launched a criminal investigation into Audrii’s disappearance, as stated by department spokesperson, Lt. Craig Cummings. A statewide Amber Alert was promptly issued on the day she went missing. The investigation has zeroed in on a person of interest, Don Steven McDougal, a friend of Audrii’s father who resides in a camper behind their home.
McDougal, who is believed to be the last person to see Audrii, was arrested on an unrelated charge of aggravated assault. He has a substantial criminal record, which includes a conviction for enticing a minor in 2008. Despite his arrest, investigators are optimistic that McDougal will provide assistance in the ongoing investigation.
Authorities are also on the lookout for McDougal’s 2003 blue Chevy Suburban. The search for Audrii has expanded to include multiple law enforcement agencies and volunteers in the Livingston area. Her backpack was discovered near Lake Livingston Dam, along with other items that are part of the ongoing investigation.
Cassie Matthews, Audrii’s mother, is in a state of despair over her missing daughter. While McDougal remains a key person of interest, authorities are exploring all possible leads and maintain hope for Audrii’s safe return. Audrii is 4-foot-1, with blond hair, blue eyes, and weighs about 75 pounds. She was last seen in a black hoodie with white lettering, a camouflage backpack, black pants, and black high-top tennis shoes. The reward for information leading to her safe return has been increased to $10,000.