Family's plea for contact amid 'extreme concern' for missing teen

Caitlin has been reported missing from Alexandra. Photo: NZ Police
Caitlin has been reported missing from Alexandra. Photo: NZ Police
The family of a missing Clyde teenager are pleading with her to get in contact as police say they have exhausted their search efforts in the Alexandra area.

Police have been searching for Caitlin Blanch (17) who has been missing from her home in Clyde since Tuesday.

Caitlin was last reported to be seen getting off a school bus in Alexandra about 8am.

A police spokesperson said the physical search had been suspended. They said Caitlin could be in the greater Otago area or beyond.

At this time, there was nothing to suggest there was any foul play.

Police and the teenager's family are today urging her to make contact.

"Caitlin’s family and police are extremely concerned for her welfare and we want to make sure she is safe."

A family spokesperson issued a statement saying: "We just want to know you are safe, that’s all we care about.

"Reach out to us, make contact and let us know you are safe.

“It doesn’t matter who you contact, family or friends, it can be anybody."

A police spokesperson said police and LandSAR volunteers from the Otago area had been searching and had made extensive enquiries into her whereabouts.

This involved additional searching around the edges of Alexandra and speaking with residents in the area.

"Despite incredible support from our search teams, and the public, we have exhausted all viable search area options at this time."

"While the physical search has been suspended, police continue to identify and follow-up new lines of enquiry into Caitlin’s whereabouts including if she has travelled outside of Alexandra."

Police continued to be in regular contact with Caitlin’s family and have advised them of this.

They understood that police would not hesitate to initiate further physical searches as new information came to hand.

"We are urging Caitlin to make contact with us and continue to appeal for information from the public to help us locate her."

Caitlin was described as being of medium build, 175cm tall, and was believed to be wearing a black jacket with fur trim, the beanie as pictured, black jeans, black boots and a dark green jersey.

Anyone who had seen Caitlin or had information about her whereabouts or wellbeing is urged to call Police on 105, quoting file number 210728/6065.

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