Urgent Search for Missing Teen: Where Is Kaniyha Lane?

A Quiet Evening Turns Into a Frantic Search

Missing person in North Carolina. Thursday, May 1, 2025, started like any other. But by 7:00 p.m., panic began. Sixteen-year-old Kaniyha Lane disappeared near the Charlotte magistrate’s office. She was last seen walking toward East Third Street and McDowell Street.

No one expected her to vanish. Yet she did.

Now, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department is racing against time.

Kaniyha Lane: Distinctive Appearance May Help Identify Her

Kaniyha stands 5 feet 1 inch tall and weighs around 104 pounds. She has black hair, brown eyes, and a slim build. That night, she wore blue sweatpants, a black short-sleeved shirt, and black Crocs—no socks.

Additionally, her hair was in two ponytails, and she was wrapped in a blue and green blanket. These details matter. They could make all the difference in locating her.

Missing Without Explanation

According to her family, Kaniyha had no reason to run away. They described her as quiet, caring, and consistent. In fact, she left no message and took nothing with her.

Clearly, this behavior was out of character. That’s why her loved ones are deeply concerned.

Furthermore, police say there were no arguments or recent changes in her life. Everything seemed normal. Until she vanished.

Immediate Police Response

The Missing Persons Unit launched a rapid investigation. Officers canvassed the area, searched video footage, and asked for witnesses. Although leads remain scarce, the case is active and ongoing.

Detectives urge the public to remain alert. Every sighting, photo, or detail may help.

Charlotte’s Community Steps In

Soon after the alert, residents started acting. Flyers appeared across shops and bus stops. Local parents began sharing the news on social media. Others organized small search groups downtown.

One business owner near Third Street said, “She could be anyone’s daughter. That’s why we care.”

Meanwhile, neighbors checked security footage. Even strangers offered support to the family.

What You Can Do Now

Stay alert. Think back to Thursday evening. Did you see a girl in a blanket? Were you near McDowell Street around 7 p.m.? Review any doorbell or dashcam footage from that time.

Even a vague memory might help.

If you see anything—or know anything—call 911 immediately. You can also reach the CMPD Missing Persons Unit for tips or updates.

Help Bring Kaniyha Lane Home

Kaniyha is more than a name. She is someone’s daughter, classmate, and friend. Her family is living through a nightmare.

Let’s not allow this case to fade.

Keep her name visible. Share her photo. Talk about her story. Every action counts. Every second matters.

You might be the person who makes the difference.

If you know where Kaniyha is—or even think you do—please call. Don’t wait. Don’t guess. Just reach out.

Help bring her home.