Missing Smithfield teenager found unharmed in Wisconsin

Published 10:06 pm Tuesday, June 6, 2023

A Smithfield teenager reported missing yesterday has been found safe, according to the town’s police department.

Esther Matthews was located in Waukesha County, Wisconsin, during a June 7 traffic stop conducted by the Waukesha County Sheriff’s Office, according to Smithfield Police Detective Sgt. William Wooley.

Wooley, who described Matthews as an “endangered runaway” in the department’s press release, said the investigation at this time indicates Matthews ran away for unknown reasons.

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She will be reunited with her family in a matter of days, Wooley said.

“The Smithfield Police Department would like to express sincere gratitude to the Waukesha County Sheriff’s Office for their swift and effective response,” the press release states. “We would also like to extend our appreciation to all the law enforcement agencies, community members, and the media who provided assistance, support and valuable information during the search for Esther Matthews.”