A Georgia teenager who had been missing for over a year has been found alive in Tennessee, where she had been living under a different name. The discovery comes just days after her mother made an emotional appeal on live television, pleading for her daughter’s return.
The Gwinnett County Police confirmed on Monday, March 17, that Asata Amun is safe and has been in the custody of the Tennessee Department of Children’s Services since February 2024. The shocking revelation ends a year-long search that began when Asata was last seen running barefoot from her family’s home.
A Mother’s Heartfelt Plea and a Year of Uncertainty
Asata’s mother, Jasmine Dominique, never gave up hope. Despite living in Connecticut, she remained involved in her daughter’s life and recently went on Atlanta’s WSB-TV 2 to beg for her safe return. Her emotional appeal aired just a week before Asata was identified in Tennessee.
“I just want my daughter to come home,” Dominique expressed, sharing her pain and frustration. Asata had been missing since February 1, 2023, and authorities had been searching for her ever since.
Asata’s disappearance was particularly alarming because she left without taking any personal belongings. Police reports indicate that she had been disciplined at school the day before she ran away.
What Happened Before She Went Missing?
According to authorities, Asata’s father, Kwabena Amun, shouted at her as she ran away, saying, “So you are just going to run like a coward, Asata?” This moment was captured on the family’s doorbell camera, marking the last time she was seen.
Following her disappearance, police conducted a search of Amun’s home. During the investigation, Asata’s two sisters were removed by Children’s Protective Services due to allegations of physical abuse. However, Amun has denied these allegations, stating in a past interview that he only wanted to ensure his daughter’s well-being.
Reports suggest that Asata had been facing disciplinary issues at North Gwinnett High School before her disappearance. Her father had even suggested military school as an option, but Asata strongly opposed it.
How Was She Found?
The breakthrough in the case came when a case manager from the Tennessee Department of Children’s Services noticed inconsistencies in Asata’s statements. This prompted further investigation, leading authorities to check records of missing children in Georgia. Eventually, they contacted the Gwinnett County Police Department, confirming Asata’s identity.
Arrangements are now being made to transfer Asata into the custody of the Georgia Department of Family & Children Services. Authorities have stated that the investigation is still ongoing to determine all the details surrounding her disappearance.
