The distraught mother of missing 16-year-old Ana Lopez left a simple message with the media outside the Newton Police Department Saturday night: “We love her and we are concerned about her well-being.â€
Lopez hasn’t been seen or heard from since around 4:30 p.m. on June 26 said Newton Police Lieutenant Bruce Apotheker.
“Our concern is she’s 16 years old, she hadn’t been in contact with any of her family or friends, and we’re asking the public’s help in locating Ana,†said Apotheker.
Lopez was last in touch with her mother, Paulina Canales, after an argument with a family member, said Apotheker. She told her mother she was leaving home and has not been heard from since, he said.
On Saturday, authorities searched the area of the Hammond Pond and the “Lower Mall†area, said Apotheker. Lopez’s cellphone was last traced to that area, police said.
When asked if foul play was suspected, Apotheker said, “We don’t think so at this time, but it’s an ongoing investigation.â€
Lopez is described as a Hispanic female, about 5-foot-2 and 150 pounds, with brown hair and blonde and red highlights, as well as two lower lip piercings, said police. Anyone with information about her whereabouts is urged to contact Newton police at 617-796-2100.
Derek J. Anderson can be reached at derek.anderson@globe.com.
