Alyssa Smith, a 24-year-old Illinois woman, has been missing since Sept. 30 after traveling to Chicago with her boyfriend, according to her mother and police. Her boyfriend, Jacob Ray Caso, returned home without her, her mother said, while authorities continue to investigate Smith’s whereabouts. Police are examining possible sightings reported in Chicago and are asking anyone with information to contact law enforcement.
Smith’s mother, Rebecca Smith, said the family is distressed and has been distributing missing-person notices. Caso has not been accused of a crime or wrongdoing, and his mother said he returned to the Chicago area three times in an effort to help locate Smith.
| 1) | Disappearance follows Chicago trip |
| 2) | Family seeks answers about changing account |
| 3) | Police investigate possible Chicago sightings |
| 4) | Description and clothing details released |
| 5) | Authorities ask public to report information |
Disappearance follows Chicago trip
Alyssa Smith was reported missing after she traveled from the Palatine, Illinois, area to Chicago with Jacob Ray Caso. Police say she has not been seen or heard from since Sept. 30. Her mother said Caso returned home without Smith, leaving the family seeking information about when and where they last had contact with her.
The circumstances of Smith’s disappearance remain under investigation. Police have not announced a determination about what happened to her, and the available information does not establish that anyone committed a crime.
Family seeks answers about changing account
Rebecca Smith said she had previously maintained a good relationship with Caso but is confused by what she described as changes in his account. She said her family wants Smith home and that her daughters are waiting for her return.
“We’re going through hell. Want her home. We miss her. Her sisters are waiting for her to come home,” Rebecca Smith said.
Caso has not been accused of wrongdoing. His mother said he has gone back to the Chicago area on three separate occasions to look for Smith. He also reshared a missing-person notice with a message asking her to come home and stating that no one was angry with her.
Police investigate possible Chicago sightings
The Palatine Police Department said detectives have been actively investigating Smith’s whereabouts and following up on information received about possible sightings. Reports indicate she may have been seen Saturday, Oct. 3, in the Grant Park area and near Cicero Avenue and Roosevelt Road.
Investigators are working to verify those reports and determine whether they involve Smith. Police have not confirmed that she was present at either location. The investigation depends in part on reviewing information from people who may have seen her or know where she is.
Description and clothing details released
Alyssa Smith is described as a White woman approximately 5 feet, 5 inches tall and weighing between 135 and 140 pounds. She has brown hair and brown eyes, along with several body piercings and numerous tattoos.
One notable identifying mark is a Pennywise clown tattoo on her left shoulder. At the time of her disappearance, she was believed to be wearing a gray hooded sweatshirt, light khaki-colored pants or sweatpants, and white Adidas sneakers. Her social media account indicates she may work at a Chipotle restaurant.
Authorities ask public to report information
Police and Smith’s family are asking anyone who sees her or has information about her immediate whereabouts to contact local law enforcement or call 911. The family has shared flyers and social media posts to broaden public awareness of the case.
“We want to get the word out that if you see something, say something. Call 911,” Rebecca Smith said.
| Number | Key Point |
|---|---|
| 1 | Alyssa Smith has been missing since Sept. 30. |
| 2 | She traveled to Chicago with Jacob Ray Caso, who returned home without her. |
| 3 | Police are checking possible sightings in Grant Park and near Cicero Avenue and Roosevelt Road. |
| 4 | Caso has not been accused of any crime or wrongdoing. |
Summary
The search for Alyssa Smith remains active after her disappearance during a trip to Chicago. Police are verifying reported sightings, while her family continues to circulate identifying information and ask the public to report credible tips immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Alyssa Smith last reported missing?
Smith has been missing since Sept. 30, according to police.
Where was Smith possibly seen?
Police are investigating reports that she may have been seen in the Grant Park area and near Cicero Avenue and Roosevelt Road on Oct. 3.
How can the public help?
Anyone who sees Smith or has information about her immediate whereabouts should contact local law enforcement or call 911.