Avery Doherty Missing: Police searching for 5-year-old from Ames
Authorities are actively seeking the whereabouts of a missing 5-year-old girl from Ames named Avery Lydia Doherty.
Described as weighing 45 pounds and standing at 4 feet, 5 inches tall, Avery has blond hair and blue eyes.
The Iowa Department of Public Safety reported her missing to the Story County Sheriff’s Office on October 13, 2023.
What Happened to Avery Doherty?
Ames Police express extreme concern for Avery’s safety, although an Amber Alert wasn’t issued due to the absence of a vehicle description.
Court documents indicate that Avery is believed to be with her non-custodial mother, Esther Bender.
Sgt. Amber Christian from the Ames Police Department emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “Our detectives have continued to follow up on any leads that have come in, but at this point, we are very concerned about Avery’s whereabouts, and we are asking for the public’s assistance in locating her.”
Despite ongoing efforts, authorities have been unable to locate Avery and Bender.
It is suspected that they may have left the state, and all leads have been exhausted. Sgt. Christian added, “Everywhere we have turned, everywhere we have looked into has not come up with any solutions.”
Bender has not adhered to the custody agreement and has failed to attend any hearings.
Authorities are urging her to come forward and confirm Avery’s well-being.
Concerned individuals with information about Avery’s disappearance are encouraged to contact the Ames Police Department at 515-239-5135 or the Story County Sheriff’s Department at 515-382-6566.
Additionally, the Missing Person Information Clearinghouse Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation can be reached at 515-725-6036.
