OCALA, FL. (352 Today) — A Central Florida family is asking for help as the Lake County Sheriff’s Office continues to search for 16-year-old Makenzie Kepka, who was reported missing over the weekend.
Makenzie was last seen on Saturday, August 17, in the area of Grace Avenue in Deland, according to the sheriff’s office. The teenager is known to frequent both Deland and Paisley.
She is described as a white female, standing 5 feet 5 inches tall and weighing approximately 135 pounds. Makenzie has blue eyes and dark brown hair styled in long braids. At the time of her disappearance, she was wearing a dark tank top and leopard print shorts.
Local authorities are urging anyone with information about Makenzie’s whereabouts to come forward.
Detective Krueger is leading the investigation and can be reached at 352-343-2101. Anonymous tips may also be submitted through CRIMELINE at 1-800-423-TIPS (8477).
The search has drawn attention across neighboring counties, with community members sharing her photo on social media and organizing online efforts to boost awareness.