Search for runaway Thousand Oaks teens expands beyond park
The search of a 2,000-acre park for two runaway Thousand Oaks teenagers believed to be suicidal has ended and authorities have begun a larger-scale investigation, authorities said Thursday evening.
Capt. Dave Wareham of the Ventura County Sheriff’s Department said deputies are now investigating the possibility that friends are harboring them. Deputies are also monitoring possible transportation options the teens could use and digging for information on social media.
Kaylee Rebert, 14, and Nicholas Marino, 13, are believed to have run away from home early Thursday. Wildwood Park was a likely spot because Kaylee knew the park well and was there Wednesday, Wareham said.
“We searched the whole park with helicopters and canines and other search and rescue resources,” he said. “We’re of the opinion they’re not in that area.”
Authorities believe the teenagers are runaways because they left notes for their parents. Kaylee’s father and Nicholas’ mother gave statements to media gathered in Wildwood Park on Thursday afternoon pleading for their children to return, according to the Ventura County Star.
“We love you and we miss you,” Chris Marino said. “Please make good decisions. Please call us or contact us when you can.”
The Ventura County Sheriff’s Department has asked anyone with information about the teenagers’ whereabouts to call Thousand Oaks Police Department Dispatch at (805) 654-9511.
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