Over 100 people are involved in the search efforts, according to New York Governor Kathy Hochul. Charlotte was camping with her family and friends when she went for a bike ride with her close friends in the early evening on Saturday. After riding together for a couple of loops, she expressed her desire to ride alone for one more round. However, when she didn’t return after about 15 minutes, her parents became concerned and started calling her name. Fellow campers from nearby sites joined in the search.
The last confirmed sighting of Charlotte was around 6:15 p.m. ET, riding her bike in one of the park’s loops. Her bike was found abandoned in the loop at approximately 6:45 p.m. Her mother subsequently reported her missing two minutes later.
Charlotte was last seen wearing an orange tie-dyed Pokémon shirt, dark blue pants, black Crocs, and a grey bike helmet. She is described as a White girl with blonde hair, standing about 4′ 6″ tall, with green eyes.
An AMBER alert was issued on Sunday morning due to concerns that an abduction may have occurred. State authorities have conducted an extensive search for over 18 hours, utilizing aviation and underwater rescue teams, bloodhounds, drones, and technology experts to analyze communication records within the park during the relevant time period.
Charlotte is the niece of a member of the Schenectady Fire Department, which is also involved in the search efforts.
Moreau Lake State Park, situated in Saratoga County, covers over 4,600 acres and features hardwood forests, pine stands, and rocky ridges. The park is located approximately 45 miles north of Albany.
The park has been closed until further notice, as confirmed in a Facebook post. Authorities continue to urge anyone with information to contact 911 to assist in locating Charlotte.
