FBI joins search for missing girl last seen in West Philadelphia as family seeks answers
Natalie has over 7 years of experience in education reporting, previously working with the Norristown Herald. She holds a Master’s in Educational Leadership from Arcadia University and is passionate about covering stories that impact local students and educators. Natalie's focus is on highlighting innovative programs and challenges within King of Prussia’s schools.
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The search is intensifying for a 10-year-old girl who has been missing from West Philadelphia for more than a week. The FBI has joined the investigation, with agents canvassing the neighborhood for clues.Jalayshia Alford was last seen around 7 a.m. on Oct. 26 in the 500 block of North Simpson Street, according to police.According to Jalayshia's aunt, her foster mother said the girl was last seen walking alone to a bus stop that morning. She never made it to school on Oct. 26, her aunt said.Her aunt also said detectives told her Jalayshia missed school on Oct. 22, four days before she was reported missing.On Tuesday, FBI agents went door to door, asking residents for surveillance video from Oct. 22 through Oct. 27. Agents also asked whether anyone had seen anything suspicious in the previous two weeks.Jalayshia, who also goes by "Malayshia" or "May," is described as 4 feet, 11 inches tall and about 70 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes.Jalayshia Alford was last seen on Oct. 26 in th