News Summary
Authorities in Spartanburg, South Carolina are actively searching for two missing teenagers, Ana Lagares-Rios and Jaylyn Cates. Ana has been missing since July 26, and Jaylyn was last seen near Curry Road. In a positive turn, 17-year-old Anthony McKenny has returned home safely. Meanwhile, the community is warned about potential severe weather this week, including thunderstorms and heavy rainfall. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and report any sightings of the missing individuals to law enforcement.
Spartanburg, South Carolina – The search continues for two missing teenagers, Ana Lagares-Rios and Jaylyn Cates, while a third youth, Anthony McKenny, has returned home safely. In addition, residents are advised to prepare for potential severe weather in the area this week, including thunderstorms and heavy rainfall.
Missing Teenagers
Ana Lagares-Rios, a 13-year-old girl, has been reported missing since July 26, 2025. Last seen in Spartanburg, authorities urge anyone with information to contact the Spartanburg Police Department at 1-864-596-2222.
Fifteen-year-old Jaylyn Cates has also been reported missing. She was last seen around 8 p.m. on a recent Friday evening on Curry Road in the Mullins area. Cates, who has no known contacts in Marion County, walked away from a recent residential placement. Originally from Augusta, Georgia, she was living in the Spartanburg area before her disappearance. At the time she went missing, she was wearing a grey hoodie, jogging pants, crocs, and eyeglasses. Law enforcement is attempting to establish if she was picked up by anyone. Any information related to her whereabouts should be directed to law enforcement by calling 843-423-8399.
Missing Youth Found Safe
In a positive development, 17-year-old Anthony McKenny has returned home safely after being reported missing. Authorities had been searching for him after he left his home around 3 a.m. in just his boxer shorts. Prior to vanishing, McKenny had communicated with his family at 10 p.m. on the previous night. Surveillance footage shows him leaving the residence on South Pinelake Drive. McKenny has been diagnosed with ADHD and other mood disorders and has been homeschooled, having transitioned from traditional classes at Whitlock to e-learning this past academic year. His family was unaware of any friends he might have been in contact with during his time away. For direct tips regarding Anthony, the Spartanburg Police Department can be reached at (864) 596-2035 or by calling 911.
Weather Forecast
The weather this week is expected to be variable, with mixed clouds and sunshine in the morning. By afternoon, scattered thunderstorms are anticipated, bringing the possibility of heavy rainfall. Temperatures will reach a high of 94°F, with light and variable winds. The chance of rain stands at 50%. As the evening progresses, thunderstorms will continue, followed by occasional showers overnight, with lows dropping to around 71°F. Winds will come from the northeast at a speed of 5 to 10 mph, and as conditions worsen, the chance of rain will increase to 70%.
Community Impact
Residents in Spartanburg and surrounding counties are urged to stay alert and keep informed throughout these developments. Parents and guardians are especially encouraged to speak with their children about safety and to keep an open line of communication regarding friendships and daily activities. The community is reminded to report any sightings or information regarding missing persons to local law enforcement promptly.
With every missing person case, the urgency of their safe return amplifies, creating a call to action for community awareness and support. As authorities continue their search, volunteers and community members stand ready to assist in any efforts necessary.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Two Teenagers Arrested for Murder of Missing 18-Year-Old in Clinton, South Carolina
Additional Resources
- WYFF4: Spartanburg Missing Teen Search
- Google Search: Missing teen Spartanburg
- Fox Carolina: Search for Missing Teen in Spartanburg
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Missing Persons
- WSPA: Upstate Teen Ran Away from Home
- Google News: Spartanburg Missing Teen
- Fox Carolina: Police Ask for Help Locating Missing Spartanburg Teen
- WYFF4: Missing USC Student in Spartanburg
Author: STAFF HERE SPARTANBURG
The SPARTANBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESpartanburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Spartanburg, Spartanburg 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 area—with 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 the Spartanburg International Festival, Spartanburg ArtWalk, and motorsport events at Spartanburg Speedway. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Spartanburg Area Chamber of Commerce and the Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System Foundation, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and textiles that power the local economy such as BMW Manufacturing and Milliken & Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
