Memphis, TN, September 12, 2025
News Summary
Memphis police are seeking the public’s help in finding 17-year-old Lenarika Williams, who went missing from Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital. Described as an endangered runaway, Lenarika was last seen wearing a purple and red sweatshirt and other casual attire. Community safety is being emphasized as family and law enforcement collaborate in the search, while local authorities also deal with increasing crime rates and weather alerts in the area.
Memphis Police Searching for Missing 17-Year-Old Endangered Runaway
Memphis police are actively searching for 17-year-old Lenarika Williams, who has been reported missing after leaving Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital without permission. She was last seen around noon on Thursday, while receiving treatment at the facility.
Lenarika is classified as an endangered runaway due to the circumstances surrounding her disappearance. Physical descriptions indicate she stands at 5 feet 6 inches tall and weighs approximately 125 pounds. At the time of her departure, she was dressed in a purple and red sweatshirt, a gray shirt, black sweats, and rainbow crocs.
The police have not disclosed the reason for Lenarika’s admission to the hospital. They are urging anyone with information about her whereabouts to reach out to the Memphis Police Department by calling 901-545-COPS (2667).
Current Conditions and Other Incidents in Memphis
This alarming case emerges against a backdrop of heightened concerns among local authorities. An unrelated Code Orange Air Quality Alert has been issued, which will remain in effect through sunset on Friday. The forecast for the day predicts high temperatures around 96ยฐF, along with a chance of stray showers or thunderstorms.
In addition to the search for Lenarika, the Memphis Police Department is navigating multiple incidents simultaneously. On Thursday evening, a boy was transported to Methodist North hospital suffering from gunshot wounds. The ongoing rise in crime rates has led local leaders to consider the potential deployment of the National Guard in Memphis to bolster safety measures.
Local tragedy struck when a 16-year-old Bolton High School football player succumbed to heat stroke, resulting in demands from the family for answers from the Memphis-Shelby County Schools regarding potential safety oversights. Furthermore, two individuals have had their charges moved to different counties in connection with the shooting deaths of four family members in West Tennessee. In another incident, the Southaven Police detained a man who fled a crime scene in Memphis after crashing his vehicle.
Background Context
The disappearance of Lenarika Williams adds to the focus on youth safety in Memphis, particularly as the community grapples with escalating incidents of violence and crime among young individuals. It emphasizes the urgency with which authorities are responding to missing persons cases, especially when minors are involved.
Community engagement and vigilance play integral roles in the search for Lenarika and the overall response to the city’s safety challenges. Reports indicate that families, local organizations, and law enforcement are working together to address these pressing issues as the city of Memphis continues to seek solutions to improve safety for all residents.
FAQ
Who is Lenarika Williams?
Lenarika Williams is a 17-year-old girl reported missing after she left Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital without permission. She is considered an endangered runaway.
What should I do if I have information about Lenarika’s whereabouts?
If you have any information regarding Lenarika Williams, please contact the Memphis Police Department at 901-545-COPS (2667).
What are the current weather conditions in Memphis?
A Code Orange Air Quality Alert is in effect, and high temperatures are expected to reach around 96ยฐF, with possible stray showers or thunderstorms.
Summary of Key Information
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Missing Person | Lenarika Williams |
| Age | 17 years |
| Last Seen | Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital, 12 PM, Thursday |
| Physical Description | 5’6″, 125 lbs |
| Last Known Attire | Purple and red sweatshirt, gray shirt, black sweats, rainbow crocs |
| Contact Number for Information | 901-545-COPS (2667) |
| Weather Alert | Code Orange Air Quality Alert |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Memphis Police Search for Missing 10-Year-Old Boy
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Memphis Police Seek Community Help in Gas Station Robberies
Memphis Police Locate Missing 13-Year-Old Girl, Community Celebrates Safe Return
Search Intensifies for Missing Memphis Teen Skyy Crout as Community Rallies for Support
Additional Resources
- Fox13 Memphis
- Local Memphis
- Action News 5
- WBBJ TV
- Commercial Appeal
- Wikipedia: Missing person
- Google Search: missing teen Memphis
- Google Scholar: missing persons
- Encyclopedia Britannica: missing children
- Google News: Memphis missing teen
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
