Written by The People’s Paper Staff in Local Government & Accountability, Local News, Public Safety Matters: A Message from Chief Denis J. Borges
By The People’s Paper MS Staff
MAGEE, Miss. — A 14 year old Texas teen who was found walking along U.S. Highway 49 South in Magee is now safe, and her family has been notified, according to the Magee Police Department.
Police confirmed Wednesday that they made contact with the girl’s mother after locating the juvenile.
“I did speak with the mother immediately after we located the juvenile,” said Chief Denis J. Borges. “One of the first things we did was make sure her parent was notified and knew she was safe.”
Authorities said they are limited in what they can release of course because the case involves a minor. However, officials confirmed the teen was safely recovered and proper steps were taken to protect her.
Questions remain about whether the teen has been transferred back to Texas and if she could face charges related to taking the vehicle. Borges said those decisions will be handled in Texas.
“Any possible charges would be up to the proper authority and jurisdiction in Texas to review,” Borges said. “Because this involves a juvenile, I cannot go into detail on that.”
The case has drawn attention across the community after police revealed the teen had been traveling from Quitman, Texas, to Florida to meet someone she met online. Her trip came to a stop in Magee when she accidentally put gasoline into a diesel truck, causing it to break down.
Borges said that mistake likely prevented a far more dangerous outcome.
“I am thankful she put gas on the diesel truck,” he said. “That is what saved her. Had she made it to the intended location, she probably would not have been seen again.”
Police are using the case as a warning to families about the dangers of online communication and the speed at which situations can escalate.
“This is a reminder of how quickly a young person can be enticed and convinced to run away, which always puts them in a dangerous situation,” Borges said. “That is why paying attention and acting quickly matters.”
He also offered direct advice to teens who may find themselves in similar situations.
“If a teen ever finds themselves in that kind of situation, the main thing is to stop and get help right away,” he said. “Go to a safe public place, call 911, call a parent or guardian, or contact law enforcement. Do not keep walking alone for long distances, and do not get in a vehicle with someone you do not know.”
Borges praised his officers for staying alert and acting quickly.
“I am very proud of my officers,” he said. “They stayed alert, paid attention to what was going on around them, and took action when they saw something was not right. Because of that, we were able to safely recover that juvenile before the situation turned into something worse. She was extremely lucky.”
Officials say the teen’s safe recovery highlights how quickly awareness and response can make a difference.
“We are thankful this juvenile was found safe, and I am proud of the officers who stayed alert and did their job,” Borges said.
