Anderson, Indiana – The community of Anderson, Indiana, breathed a collective sigh of relief as 13-year-old Kennadie Heck, who had been missing since Tuesday night, was found safe and has returned home. Kennadie, a biracial female described as approximately 5’4" and 110 lbs, had been last seen wearing Nike sweats, a Nike jacket, and Nike slides, with her hair natural and purple.
The news of her return was shared by her aunt, Samantha Rae Steves, on Facebook. "My niece has been found! She’s home!!!! Thanks so much to all that shared and got the word out there & for your prayers. She came home on her own, and I’m sure that was hard to do! I’m glad she did. Love you very much, KENNADIE KATRIONA ROSE HECK!" Steves wrote, expressing her immense relief.
The search for Kennadie had been a source of anxiety for her family and the community, with many taking to social media to share information and offer prayers. Maggie Thomas, a concerned community member, urged anyone with information to come forward. "If someone knows where this young lady is, do the right thing and let someone know – her mom, her aunt, or the police," she posted.
Kennadie’s return brought about an outpouring of gratitude and relief on social media. Autumn Short commented, "Thank God!!" while Jane Williams added, "Thank the Lord, great to see this." Another commenter, Kathy Jo, acknowledged the bravery it took for Kennadie to come home, saying, "That definitely took a lot of guts to do. Kennadie, so glad you are safe; this world is a scary, scary place."
The Anderson Police Department and the Madison County Sheriff’s Office had been involved in the search, but with limited information and resources due to the initial assumption that Kennadie had run away. Her family had been desperately trying to reach her, with her aunt, mother, and other relatives pleading for her to contact them.
Kennadie’s safe return marks the end of a tense and frightening period for her family and the Anderson community. Their prayers were answered, and the Heck family can now begin to heal and move forward, grateful for the support and love they received from friends, family, and strangers alike.