Huntley Police are seeking the public’s help with finding two teenagers who went missing and were recently spotted in Chicago.
Emilia Rechsteiner, 14, of Huntley, and Elizabeth Ernst, 15, of Crystal Lake, were reported missing by their parents Tuesday after the teens did not return home from school, Huntley Police Deputy Chief Kevin Keane said in a news release.
During the late afternoon hours of Tuesday, May 20, members of Rechsteiner’s family contacted the Huntley Police Department to report Emilia did not return home.
Police received a report at 2:42 p.m. that Rechsteiner was seen with Ernst in the area of Ol’ Timers Park in Huntley, Keane said.
Shortly after, the two were seen on Buck Drive just as Ernst’s family reported the teen missing, Keane said.
Police learned the two may have travelled to Chicago, prompting authorities to obtain video evidence showing the two arrived at Ogilvie Transportation Center in Chicago at 6 p.m. Tuesday.
In the video, the teens appear to have dyed their hair before getting on the train, Keane said.
Neither juvenile has a cell phone known to their family, Keane said, adding they may be using an unidentified phone or device unknown to their families or tied to any family account.
Detectives are attempting to identify any devices being used and are tracking the teens’ social media accounts.
Keane said the teens have been in communication with friends but have not disclosed their location.
In addition, the teens appear to be in the company of an unidentified male subject, Keane said.
Police are urging people to review the pictures of the teens and the unidentified male and contact the Huntley Police Department Tip Line with any information at (847) 515-5333.
In addition, residents in the area of Ol’ Timers Park are asked to check their cameras for any footage of the juveniles or vehicles picking them up on Tuesday, May 20, between 2:40 p.m. and 4:30 p.m.
People who call the tip line are asked to include their name, contact information, and a brief description of the information in the message.
Parents of any teens who may know the missing juveniles should speak with their children about what they know about this case and reiterate the importance of being forthcoming with the police for the safety of Emilia and Elizabeth, Keane said.