Urgent Search Underway for Missing 17-Year-Old Chloe Michelle Whitener in Ranlo, North Carolina
Ranlo, N.C. — April 30, 2025 — An intense and growing search effort is underway in Gaston County for Chloe Michelle Whitener, a 17-year-old girl who was reported missing from her home in the Town of Ranlo. Authorities escalated the situation early Tuesday morning by issuing an Amber Alert, citing urgent concerns for Chloe’s safety and well-being.
Chloe was last seen at her residence on Monday evening, but when family members checked on her later that night, she was gone — and no one had seen or heard from her since. Local law enforcement, in collaboration with the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) and federal agencies, is now working tirelessly to trace her whereabouts and bring her home safely.
Details of Disappearance
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Name: Chloe Michelle Whitener
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Age: 17
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Height: 5’4”
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Weight: Approximately 115 lbs
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Hair: Dark brown
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Eyes: Hazel
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Last seen wearing: A black hoodie, jeans, and white sneakers
According to authorities, there is no evidence at this time to suggest she left willingly, and several elements of the case have raised red flags about her potential vulnerability. Officials have not released additional information about any persons of interest, but the Amber Alert activation indicates that law enforcement believes she may have been abducted or is otherwise in danger.
Community and Law Enforcement Join Forces
Local residents in Ranlo, Gastonia, and surrounding communities have joined the effort, organizing volunteer search groups, printing flyers, and flooding social media with images of Chloe. Her disappearance has rattled the small town, where neighbors are used to looking out for one another and where a missing child is an unthinkable tragedy.
“This is every parent’s worst nightmare,” said Chief John Hightower of the Ranlo Police Department. “We are exhausting every lead, reviewing surveillance footage, conducting interviews, and urging the public to report anything — even something they think is small. Time is critical.”
Drones and K-9 units have been deployed in nearby wooded areas and around water bodies, while law enforcement continues canvassing neighborhoods, checking traffic and surveillance cameras, and coordinating with federal agencies for digital tracking.
Family’s Plea for Help
Chloe’s family, devastated and desperate for answers, is pleading with the public for help. Her mother, through tears, told local media:
“Please, if you see my baby, or if you know anything — no matter how small — come forward. She’s never done anything like this before. She didn’t take her phone or any clothes. We just want her home. We love her so much.”
Friends of Chloe have described her as a quiet, intelligent, and kind-hearted teen who enjoys reading, art, and spending time with her younger siblings. She had plans to start college in the fall and was excited about a future in design or education.
Amber Alert and How You Can Help
The Amber Alert for Chloe Whitener remains active throughout North Carolina. Authorities ask everyone to keep an eye out for her and to share her photo widely on social media. Tips can be submitted anonymously through:
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Gaston County Police Department at (704) 866-3300
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N.C. SBI Missing Persons Unit
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National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (1-800-THE-LOST)
If you live in the region, check your home security footage, doorbell cameras, and dashcams from April 28–30. Even the smallest clue — a sighting, a vehicle, a timestamp — could be critical in locating Chloe.
Hope Remains
Though the hours stretch painfully on, Chloe’s loved ones and the broader community are clinging to hope. Candlelight vigils are being organized, churches are opening their doors for prayer, and digital billboards across the state are broadcasting Chloe’s image.
In moments like these, communities are often tested — and in Ranlo, the response has been swift, compassionate, and determined. As the search continues, every second matters.
To stay up to date, follow updates from the Ranlo Police Department, Gaston County Emergency Management, or check alerts on the NCMEC website.