An urgent police appeal has been launched after 13-year-old Emily Rhodes disappeared from the Ashbrooke area of Sunderland on Saturday afternoon.
Northumbria Police are increasingly concerned for Emily’s welfare and are appealing to the public for help in locating her. She was last seen at around 3pm on 26 April 2025, and officers believe she may have travelled towards Newcastle city centre via public transport.
Description of Emily Rhodes:
- Age: 13
- Height: 5ft 4in
- Build: Medium
- Hair: Brown with blonde highlights, shoulder-length
- Eyes: Brown
- Clothing: Black t-shirt with a leaf design, black leggings, and white Crocs
- Bag: Carrying a black tote bag with a short strap
Emily’s distinctive appearance and outfit are key identifiers, and police are urging anyone who thinks they may have seen her to come forward immediately.
A spokesperson for Northumbria Police said: “We are becoming increasingly concerned for Emily’s safety and are asking members of the public to assist us in finding her. If you have any information about her whereabouts, or if you believe you may have seen her, please contact police urgently.”
How to Report Sightings:
- Call Northumbria Police on 101 quoting reference NP-20250426-0642.
- If Emily is spotted, police advise not to approach but to call immediately and provide her location.
Wider Context: Emily’s disappearance highlights the ongoing challenge of missing person cases across the North East. According to the charity Missing People UK, a child is reported missing every two minutes in the UK. Prompt public awareness and information-sharing are critical to ensuring safe recoveries.
Northumbria Police continue to work closely with partners and the community to locate Emily and ensure her safe return.