Search for 15-year-old runaway girl from Lexington has ended, police say
UPDATE: Cherrell Patterson returned home early Monday morning and is safe, the Lexington Police Department said.
Original Story
A search is underway for a missing girl in South Carolina.
Cherrell Patterson was publicly reported missing Sunday night by the Lexington Police Department. The 15-year-old was last seen hours earlier.
Police called Cherrell a runaway, saying she has been entered into NCIC.
Patterson was last seen by family at her Autumn Stroll Court home at 4:30 a.m. Sunday, police said.
There was no word if Cherrell was alone when she was last seen. Police did not say if foul play was suspected in Cherrell’s ongoing disappearance.
Police described Cherrell as a 5-foot-3, 133-pound teen with long pink dreads. Cherell was last seen wearing Shrek and Donkey slippers, according to police.
Anyone who has seen Crawford, or has information about her, is asked to contact police at 803-358-1569 or mmorrison@lexsc.gov. Information can also be sent to CrimeStoppers at 888-CRIME-SC or submit an online tip.
In the case of an emergency, always call 911.
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This story was originally published March 9, 2026 at 7:52 AM.