Family Still Searching for Answers One Year After Ja’Niyah McMichael’s Disappearance

GARY, Ind. — It has been a year since 13-year-old Ja’Niyah McMichael vanished from Gary, Indiana, and her family continues to cling to hope that she will be found alive. Despite an extensive search and a growing investigation, questions surrounding her disappearance remain unanswered.

Family members say they have never stopped looking for Ja’Niyah. “If somebody is holding her, just let her go. You can drop her off anywhere. My numbers are on the flyers. I will go anywhere—just let her go,” her grandmother pleaded.

At the time of her disappearance, Ja’Niyah’s mother allegedly told the grandmother she had run away. However, investigators believe the case involves foul play, although they have not publicly disclosed what evidence led them to this conclusion. Law enforcement officials note that it’s uncommon for young teenagers to remain missing for such a long period if they have simply run away.

The FBI has now taken over the case to assist local police and has executed a search warrant at the home where Ja’Niyah lived. Authorities are pursuing every possible lead, but so far no arrests have been made and no major breakthroughs have been announced.

A $30,000 reward has been offered for information leading to answers about Ja’Niyah’s disappearance. Her family continues to urge the public to share her story and keep her name in the spotlight. Supporters are also encouraged to post purple heart emojis online as a sign of solidarity and hope for Ja’Niyah’s safe return.