$20k Reward for Safe Return of Missing Gainesville Girl

12-year-old Maria Gomez-Perez was last seen at her home in Gainesville on May 29, 2024.Photo byHall County Sheriff's Office

The reward in the search for a missing Gainesville girl has doubled since being announced on June 6. Anonymous donors are now offering $20,000 for the safe return of 12-year-old Maria Gomez-Perez.

Maria disappeared from her Westside Drive home on Wednesday, May 29. She was reported missing the following day.

The Hall County Sheriff's Office (HCSO) released an updated flyer on June 6, alerting the public to be on the lookout for Maria. It lists her as "missing" and "endangered."

Photo byHall County Sheriff's Office

“We hope this reward money prompts someone who knows something about Maria’s whereabouts to come forward,” said Hall County Sheriff Gerald Couch.

Authorities have released few details about their investigation. The sheriff's office has been criticized for its handling of the case. However, Sheriff Couch insists investigators are working hard to bring Maria home.

“Our investigators and investigative partners are following every lead they get, but so far, none of those leads have led us to Maria,” he said. “The concerned citizens providing this reward want what we want – for Maria to return home safe.”

Any tips regarding Maria’s disappearance should go to HCSO’s Special Investigations Unit at 770-503-3232 or intelrequest@hallcounty.org.

Tips may also be phoned into 911 or Hall County Dispatch at 770-536-8812.