Bexar County, Texas – Authorities and the community are urgently seeking information regarding the whereabouts of 16-year-old Jewelle Marie Hatten-Smith, who was last seen on August 8, 2024. The Bexar County Sheriff’s Office has issued a missing juvenile alert, urging anyone with information to come forward.
Jewelle Marie Hatten-Smith was last observed at around 12:15 PM by her parents through their home’s security camera. She was seen entering a silver sedan on the driveway of her residence. At the time of her disappearance, Jewelle was wearing a white long-sleeve shirt or hoodie, blue jeans, and was carrying a dark backpack along with a dark-colored gym bag. Notably, she was not carrying a cellular phone, and it remains unclear if someone else provided her with one.
The Bexar County Sheriff’s Office has emphasized the seriousness of the situation, reminding the public that harboring a runaway is a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $5,000. Authorities are also appealing to drivers working with ride-share services such as Uber and Lyft to report any relevant information.
The case has garnered attention on social media, with many expressing concern and sharing prayers for Jewelle’s safe return. For instance, Patricia Casias Terrazas commented, "Prayers she’s found safe!" echoing the sentiments of many in the community.
Additionally, the public is actively involved, with Elizabeth Stewart sharing the information in Olympia/Seattle, Washington, and Dwayne Colley asking for specific details to help the community stay vigilant. Another user, Courtney Walden Rawson, stressed the importance of thorough investigation over assumptions, writing, "This is a 16-year-old girl. I rather be safe than sorry and investigate further; rather than make assumptions she is with a boyfriend."
The urgency to find Jewelle has brought together not only the local community but also individuals across different regions, all hoping for her safe return. Anyone with information regarding Jewelle Marie Hatten-Smith’s whereabouts is urged to contact the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office at (210) 335-6000 or via email at missingpersons@bexar.org.