Full Breakdown
Search and Rescue Efforts Conclude with Safe Return of Missing Girls in Elbert County
12/16/2025, 9:06:14 PM
Overview of the Incident
On December 15, 2025, two 13-year-old girls, Eva and Neilliy, went missing after attending a basketball game at Elbert School in Elbert County, Colorado. The girls, students at The Colorado Springs School, were last seen leaving the school around 5 p.m. with their backpacks. A search was initiated immediately after they were reported missing, leading to a significant community response.
Search Operations
The Elbert County Sheriff's Office coordinated search efforts that included drones, canine units, and ground teams from the Douglas County Search and Rescue and Arapahoe County Rescue Patrol. The search radius extended five miles around the school, with operations continuing late into the night before resuming early the next morning. Classes at Elbert School were canceled on December 16 to facilitate the search, which was conducted from the school, serving as the incident command post.
Discovery of the Girls
The girls were located safe on December 16 around 9 a.m. by a rancher approximately seven to eight miles from the school. They had spent the night outdoors without proper clothing for the cold temperatures, which dipped into the 30s overnight. According to Elbert County Undersheriff Dave Fisher, the girls approached the rancher's home seeking help. They were reported to be cold but were eating breakfast and were soon to be reunited with their families.
Official Statements & Community Response
The Colorado Springs School expressed relief at the safe return of the girls, with Head of School Dr. Ryan Kelly stating, “Our entire school community is focused on supporting the safe return of these students.” The school also provided support for students affected by the incident. Undersheriff Fisher noted the community's active involvement in the search, highlighting the extensive sharing of information on social media and the willingness of local residents to assist.
Criticism & Opposition
While the search concluded positively, questions remain regarding the circumstances that led the girls to leave the school. As of now, no specific reasons have been provided for their departure, and the investigation into the incident continues.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The good news is they are safe,” — Elbert County Undersheriff Dave Fisher
- “We have some wonderful news to report. Our two missing young ladies have been found safe. They are cold, they are eating breakfast and they will be reunited with their families shortly,” — Elbert County Undersheriff Dave Fisher
- “We are fully cooperating with law enforcement and providing all requested information to assist in search efforts.” — Dr. Ryan Kelly, Head of The Colorado Springs School
Conclusion
The successful recovery of Eva and Neilliy marks a positive outcome to a tense situation that engaged local authorities and the community. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of safety measures for young individuals during school events. Further investigations may provide clarity on the reasons behind the girls' disappearance.
