PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY, Md. – Authorities are investigating after a woman’s body was discovered over the weekend in Anne Arundel County. Police say the victim’s characteristics are similar to those of 19-year-old Dacara Thompson, who has been missing for more than a week.
The Disappearance of Dacara Thompson
Thompson, a 19-year-old from Lanham, Maryland, was last seen on August 22. Her family reported her missing the following day, prompting the Prince George’s County Police Department (PGPD) to open a case through its Missing Persons Unit.
The search for Thompson quickly grew into a countywide effort, with family, friends, and local officials urging anyone with information to come forward. Flyers were distributed in neighborhoods, and community members took to social media to share her story.
A Body Found Off Route 50
On Sunday, Maryland State Police located the body of a woman in a grassy area off Route 50 in Anne Arundel County. While investigators have not confirmed the identity, they acknowledged similarities to Thompson.
“The characteristics are similar, so we’re exploring that,” said PGPD Interim Chief George Nader.
Authorities are awaiting an official autopsy from the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, which will determine both the cause of death and the woman’s identity.
Statements from Officials
Interim Chief Nader emphasized the department’s commitment to resolving the case:
“Anytime a member of our community goes missing, we take it seriously. We know behind every missing person report is a worried family desperate for answers. Our dedicated detectives of the Missing Persons Unit are committed to locating those who are missing and getting those questions answered.”
Prince George’s County Executive Aisha Braveboy also expressed her concern and support for the Thompson family:
“Ms. Thompson is a valued member of the Prince George’s County community. Once we learned that Dacara was missing, I asked to be kept up to date on the investigation. The entire county has been praying for Dacara and her loving family. We intend to get her family and our community the answers they deserve.”
Joint Investigation Underway
The investigation is now a collaborative effort between PGPD and the Maryland State Police. While PGPD continues to treat the matter as a missing persons case, state police are handling the death investigation related to the body found on Route 50.
“They’re going to be handling the death investigation, we are still working the missing persons case,” Chief Nader clarified.
Community on Edge
The case has drawn widespread attention throughout Prince George’s County and neighboring areas. Many residents say they are deeply shaken by the possibility that the young woman, described by friends and family as kind and full of promise, may have met a tragic end.
Local leaders have urged the community not to speculate until official results are released but encouraged continued vigilance.
Awaiting Answers
As of now, investigators are waiting for the autopsy results to confirm the victim’s identity and provide clarity on the cause and manner of death. Until then, Thompson’s disappearance remains an active missing persons case.
Authorities continue to call on the public for assistance. Anyone with information about Dacara Thompson’s disappearance or the discovery in Anne Arundel County is urged to contact the Prince George’s County Police Department or the Maryland State Police.
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