Missing Teens Found: Deputies

The teenagers, last seen on July 28, were found Friday at a minister's home in Poway

Deputies have located two North County teenagers who were reported missing, the San Diego Sheriff's Department confirmed Friday evening.

Ashlee Bizell, 17, and Tyler Thorton, 16, were last seen in the Poway area on Saturday, July 28.

Initially, authorities believed the pair were somewhere on foot in the Poway, Lakeside or Ramona areas. Ultimately, Sheriff’s Search and Rescue deputies said the teenagers were found safe at a home near Metate Lane in Poway.

Turns out, the teens were staying with a local minister who offered them his home.

According to local minister George Elias, Bizell and Thorton allegedly told him they were homeless and expecting a child. Believing their pretense, Elias said he accepted the young couple into his home.


“They told me they were married. They both had wedding rings on. They told me they were both 21,” explained Elias. “[They] didn't have any place to go. [They told me] they were sleeping in the bushes. They lost a home in the Julian area. “

The teens were first reported missing Thursday, according to authorities.

“The family thought the teens would come home on their own. And so when they didn't by Thursday, of course they're concerned and they contacted our station,” said Jan Brewer of the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department.

On Friday afternoon, the Search and Rescue Team mobilized their resources, including dogs and horses, in their search for the teenagers.

However, the search was over before it even began.

Sheriff’s detectives showed up at the minister’s house to explain the situation.

Elias was surprised the young couple he was housing were not exactly who they said they were.

“I'm really sorry to see that happened, because I was really trying to help this couple out,” Elias added.

No further information has been released about why Bizell and Thorton disappeared in the first place.

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