SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Child Welfare Division, has issued a missing child alert for 11-year-old Sophia Alonzo, who disappeared from Portland on August 28. Authorities believe she may be in danger and are urgently seeking help from the public.
Description of Missing Child
Sophia Alonzo is described as:
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Age: 11
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Height: 5 feet 2 inches
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Weight: 125 pounds
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Hair: Light brown, short, and curly
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Eyes: Green
Authorities stress that Sophia is currently in foster care and her disappearance is being treated as a high-priority case.
Where She May Be
Investigators believe Sophia may be in or around the Scott Mountain Apartments complex on Southeast Aspen Summit Drive in Portland. Police are actively canvassing the area and encouraging community members nearby to remain vigilant.
Agencies Involved
Sophia’s case is being jointly managed by the Portland Police Bureau and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC).
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Portland Police Bureau case number: 25-2355466
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NCMEC case number: 2059723
Officials have not released further details about the circumstances of her disappearance but emphasize that they are concerned for her safety.
Call for Public Assistance
ODHS is urging anyone with information about Sophia’s whereabouts to immediately contact the Oregon Child Abuse Hotline at 1-855-503-SAFE (7233).
The hotline is staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and accepts reports not only about missing children but also about suspected abuse or neglect of both children and adults.
Community’s Role in Recovery
Authorities say public awareness is crucial in cases involving missing children. Residents are asked to:
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Share Sophia’s description and alert with others in the Portland area.
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Keep an eye out in neighborhoods, schools, transit centers, parks, and apartment complexes.
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Report any sightings or tips, no matter how minor they may seem, to the Child Abuse Hotline.
Even small pieces of information can help investigators piece together Sophia’s movements and locate her safely.
Why Public Alerts Matter
In Oregon, the ODHS issues missing child alerts when it believes a foster child’s safety is at risk. These alerts are distinct from AMBER Alerts but serve a similar purpose by quickly mobilizing the community.
Authorities remind the public that children in foster care are often especially vulnerable when they go missing, as they may lack safe housing, consistent supervision, or support networks to turn to.
Moving Forward
As the investigation continues, the priority for officials remains ensuring Sophia’s safe return. Portland Police and ODHS say they will provide updates as more information becomes available.
For now, community members are asked to remain alert, spread the word, and call the hotline immediately if they have any information about Sophia Alonzo’s whereabouts.
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