Missing 12-year-old girl may be in Florida, deputies say

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — Officials are still searching for a missing 12-year-old girl from Georgia, and they believe she could be in Florida.

Maria Gomez-Perez, of Georgia, was last seen six weeks ago when she went missing from her home on Westside Drive in Gainesville, Georgia the night of May 29, according to the Hall County Sheriff’s Office.

The girl left her house after speaking to someone on the phone. Officials said she hasn’t been seen or heard from since.

“Our only goal is to find Maria and bring her home,” Sheriff Gerald Couch said.

Gomez-Perez is described as a Hispanic/Latino girl, at 5’3″, weighing 110 pounds.

The sheriff’s office said searches spanning across several states have been conducted, including Florida, Alabama, South Carolina, Texas, Tennessee, Illinois, and Maryland.

“The team is using resources including intelligence, translators, drones, crime scene investigators and simple determination to find clues.”

A $50,000 reward is being offered for the child’s safe return.

“In the sixth week since Maria was last seen, assistance from our community remains helpful in ensuring this case remains in the spotlight,” the Sheriff added. “Whether pledging reward money, organizing signage or sharing fliers, each one of you is appreciated. It is also important to note that scammers have tried to take advantage of this incident using social media. Please remember that the sheriff’s office social media platforms should be your point of reference for legitimate and accurate information on the case.”

Anyone with tips or any information is asked to call 770-503-3232 or email intelrequest@hallcounty.org.

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