Right: Progressed to age 29 years (circa 2010)

Vanessa Dawn Smith
Missing since May 31, 1997 from Winton, Merced County, California
Classification: Endangered Missing

Vital Statistics

• Date Of Birth: December 26, 1981
• Age at Time of Disappearance: 15 years old
• Height and Weight at Time of Disappearance: 5'6" (168 cm); 130 lbs (59 kg).
• Distinguishing Characteristics: White female. Sandy blonde hair; blue eyes. Light complexion with freckles. Vanessa has Dewayne's syndrome in her right eye (when the eye drifts toward the inside).
• Marks, Scars: Large birthmark, or discoloration, from her shoulder to her elbow on her right arm; scar on her left ear.
• Clothing: Light blue denim dress, with an elastic waist and silver buttons. White Hurachi sandals, black organdy head cover. (She is a Mennonite)
• Dentals: Not available

Circumstances of Disappearance
Smith was last seen about 19.00 when she went for her evening walk in Winton, California on May 31, 1997.
Her walking stick was found along the roadside, along the path she normally takes, on Mercedes Avenue, approximately 200 yards East of Winton Way.
Vanessa's father said his daughter would never go anyplace without asking permission. Foul play is suspected.

Investigators
If you have any information concerning this case, please contact:

Merced County Sheriff's Department
Missing Persons Unit
209-385-7444
Email

Agency Case Number: 97-15625

NCMEC #: NCMC833448

NCIC Number: M-033264093
Please refer to this number when contacting any agency with information regarding this case.

Source Information:
National Center for Missing & Exploited Children
Child Protection Education of America, Inc.
Merced County Sheriff's Department
Polly Klaas Foundation
California Department of Justice
Modesto Bee, The (CA) - September 9, 1997