LOS ANGELES, CA – A 17-year-old mother and her 1-year-old daughter who were reported missing in Palmdale have been located safe, authorities confirmed Friday.
The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) said Luz Martinez Cifuentes and her infant, Maydeline Catalan Martinez, were last seen around 2:50 p.m. Thursday in the 16900 block of East Avenue O, south of Coolwater Avenue.
Authorities launched a day-long search for the pair after family members reported them missing. Officials initially described the mother and child as “at risk”, citing concerns for their well-being.
On Friday at approximately 4:30 p.m., LASD announced that both had been found. No details were provided about where they were located or the circumstances of their disappearance.
Authorities expressed gratitude to the public and local residents who assisted in the search effort.
“The Sheriff’s Department thanks the community for sharing information and assisting with efforts to locate Luz and Maydeline,” officials said in a brief statement.
The case raised alarm in the Palmdale community, with volunteers and neighbors assisting law enforcement in efforts to spread information about the missing pair. Social media posts circulated widely, and flyers were distributed throughout the area.
Authorities had initially expressed urgency due to reports that the young mother required medication and concerns about the infant’s safety in the absence of proper care.
The Sheriff’s Department did not indicate whether foul play was suspected or if the mother and child had voluntarily left their home. Officials emphasized that the primary focus was ensuring their safety.
While the investigation has concluded, LASD encouraged the public to remain vigilant and report any future concerns related to the case.
Residents with additional information are urged to contact the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department at 661-948-8466 or submit anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at lacrimestoppers.org.
The Sheriff’s Department thanked local agencies and volunteers for their quick response, underscoring the importance of community cooperation in locating missing persons.
