Gary, Indiana — Authorities and family members are once again asking the public for help in finding 15-year-old Ja’Niyah McMichael, who has been missing since August 2024. The renewed appeal comes as loved ones gathered this week to mark what should have been a joyful milestone—her 15th birthday.
Ja’Niyah was reported missing on August 12, 2024, from her home on the 1900 block of Malcolm X Boulevard. Since then, there have been few confirmed leads, leaving investigators and family members searching for answers.
On Tuesday, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and Gary Police Department joined the family’s efforts to bring attention back to the case. A balloon release was held in her honor, followed by a community rally along Broadway, where supporters honked car horns, handed out flyers, and spoke to passersby in hopes of generating new tips.
For Ja’Niyah’s grandmother, Dalia James Guerrero, the day was filled with both love and heartbreak. She recalled the last birthday they celebrated together when Ja’Niyah turned 13, not knowing it would be their final moment in person.
“We’re supposed to be making big plans for her,” Guerrero said. “It breaks my heart because I don’t know where she is.”
Despite the uncertainty, Guerrero continues to hold on to hope. She firmly believes her granddaughter is still alive and says she will continue advocating until she is found.
Investigators have not ruled out foul play in Ja’Niyah’s disappearance. Authorities say she has known connections in Gary and nearby East Chicago, Indiana, and are urging anyone who may have seen or heard something to come forward.
At the time she went missing, Ja’Niyah was last seen wearing black pajama pants, a black hooded sweatshirt, and red-and-black shoes.
To encourage information, a total reward of $30,000 is now being offered. This includes contributions from the FBI, Gary Police, and an anonymous donor. Officials say the reward is for information that leads to her safe return and the arrest and conviction of anyone responsible.
Community members and investigators alike stress that even the smallest detail could make a difference.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324) or submit a tip online at tips.fbi.gov. Tips can be provided anonymously.
As the search continues, Ja’Niyah’s family is asking the public to keep sharing her story—hoping that awareness will bring her home.
