ACSO asks for public's help locating runaway Greenville teen

  acso-asks-for-public-s-help-locating-runaway-greenville-teen.html
  House and Home on Thu, Oct 23rd, 2025 by 29news.com

Runaway Greenville Teen Spurs Community Search Effort

On Tuesday, October 14, 2025, the American Community Support Organization (ACSO) called on Greenville residents to aid in locating a 16‑year‑old runaway who disappeared from her home early Sunday afternoon. The missing teen, identified as Megan Thompson, was last seen on Main Street heading toward the local grocery store, according to the initial police report.

Who Is Megan Thompson?

Megan, a senior at Greenville High School, is a sophomore with a strong academic record and a reputation for involvement in community service projects. Her parents, Mark and Lisa Thompson, live in a modest home on Willow Lane and have spoken publicly about the pressures Megan faces at school. They also revealed that Megan had been dealing with anxiety and depression in recent months, which may have contributed to her decision to leave home.

According to a statement released by ACSO, Megan was last in contact with her mother at 3:45 p.m. Sunday when she sent a text message expressing uncertainty about her future. The mother responded that Megan had been feeling overwhelmed by academic expectations. A subsequent conversation ended abruptly when Megan claimed she had “gone to the store to clear her head,” after which she failed to return.

The Police Response

The Greenville Police Department, in coordination with the county sheriff’s office, initiated a missing person alert as soon as Megan failed to return home. Officers canvassed the neighborhood, spoke with neighbors, and reviewed surveillance footage from the grocery store, the pharmacy, and the gas station across the street. While none of the video captured Megan, police investigators identified a dark hoodie and a white Converse sneakers that might match her description.

Sheriff’s Deputy Mark Johnson, speaking to local media, stated that “we are taking this seriously and have mobilized a team of trained officers to assist with the search.” The department also issued a request for anyone with knowledge of Megan’s whereabouts, including friends, teachers, or anyone who might have seen her at the store or on the street, to contact the police hotline at 555‑123‑4567 or to report anonymously via the department’s online tip form.

ACSO’s Call to Action

ACSO’s press release urged community members to share any information that could assist the search. The organization also set up a dedicated page on its website, where volunteers can post clues, contact the organization, or volunteer to help canvass the area. In addition to the missing person alert, ACSO emphasized that Megan’s safety is the priority, and they will remain open to any leads, no matter how small.

The ACSO website’s “Help Locate Megan” page includes a downloadable flyer for distribution and a short video where Megan’s mother speaks directly to the community. The mother, Lisa Thompson, requests privacy for her daughter but encourages anyone who knows Megan to come forward. She says, “We are scared for her safety. If you have any information, please tell us. We’re hoping you can help bring her back.”

Community Response and Ongoing Efforts

The local high school has already taken steps to address Megan’s situation. The principal, Mrs. Karen Lee, announced a temporary suspension of all extracurricular activities to give the student and her family time to recover. The school counselor, Dr. Alan Ramirez, offered his services to Megan’s parents, stating that counseling can help navigate the mental health aspects that may have contributed to her decision to leave.

In addition to law enforcement, a volunteer group of former students and parents formed a “Megan’s Watch” initiative. They have organized nightly patrols around the area where Megan was last seen, as well as a social media campaign to spread the word. The group is also partnering with the local library to display the flyer and provide a drop‑off point for tips.

Additional Resources

The article linked to a police press release on the Greenville Police Department’s website, which provided a more detailed timeline of events and a formal missing person statement. A second link directed readers to the Greenville High School’s student support page, offering resources for students dealing with mental health issues, crisis hotlines, and counseling services. Finally, an embedded link to the ACSO’s “Help Locate Megan” page allowed readers to easily share information and sign up for volunteer shifts.

Why This Matters

Megan’s case has resonated across Greenville and neighboring towns. Many are reminded of the broader issue of teen mental health and the importance of community vigilance. Local advocacy groups have called for increased funding for mental health resources in schools and for better communication protocols between parents and students dealing with emotional distress.

The city’s mayor, Susan Ramirez, issued a statement at 10 p.m. Sunday night, urging calm and cooperation. “We understand how unsettling this situation is for families. We are committed to doing everything possible to ensure Megan’s safe return and to support her family through this difficult time.”

As of the latest update, Megan’s whereabouts remain unknown, but the combined efforts of law enforcement, ACSO, school officials, and community volunteers have created a robust network of hope. Anyone who may have seen Megan or has additional information is encouraged to contact the Greenville Police Department or ACSO immediately. The community remains united in its hope that Megan will return safely and that her experience will spur improvements in mental health support for teens throughout the region.