June 1, 2023 – Merced County Sheriff's Office officials report that on May 31, 1997, at 7:00 p.m., Vanessa Dawn Smith left her home in Winton for a walk and never returned. The search for Vanessa remains ongoing, and her family, friends, and the authorities are desperate for any information that could help solve this long-standing investigation.

Vanessa was 15 years old when she disappeared, and any information related to her case could be of utmost importance.

If you have any information, please contact our Investigations Bureau at (209) 385-7472. Let us join the community to support the investigation and bring closure to Vanessa's Mother and loved ones.

Source & photos: Merced County Sheriff's Office