San Diego

Teen With Down Syndrome Found Walking in Oceanside Has Been Reunited With Family: OPD

Oceanside Police have located the family of a girl with down syndrome who was found wandering near San Luis Rey Elementary School early Monday. 

The 13-year-old was spotted walking alone in the area near El Camino Real and Mission Avenue in Oceanside with no shoes at about 1 a.m., the Oceanside Police Department said. 

The girl told police she was 19-year-old but it was determined she was 13 years old, SDPD said. 

Police released a photo of the girl in the hopes that someone who recognized her would come forward. 

She was confused, withdrawn and scared when police made contact with her, OPD Sgt. Jeff Novak said. She was taken to Tri-City Medical Center for evaluation.

A family later called Oceanside police with a report of a missing girl. OPD determined the family was that of the missing 13-year-old and they have since been reunited, OPD said.

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