Katharina Buczek
However, a newly-obtained video of Kiely from the early evening of August 5 showed her wearing a pink and white Odd Future graphic sweatshirt– suggesting that she may have been wearing the hoodie before disappearing.
The Placer County Sheriff’s Office also hosted a press conference just yesterday to update the California community on search efforts.
“We have been working closely with the family. We are still looking for any clues, videos, tips, and any information that can help us put pieces together,” said Nevada County Sheriff’s Captain Sam Brown.
Additionally, Lieutenant Josh Barnhart of Placer County described how the search for Kiely will be transitioning into a new phase of efforts.
“We have identified lead investigators from each agency– Place County Sheriff’s Office, Nevada County Sheriff’s Office, California Highway Patrol, Truckee PD, and the FBI– and we will be moving forward in a task force manner,” Lt. Barnhart said.
This means that any newly acquired leads will be cycled through the appropriate agencies instead of maintaining a large personnel group in Placer County. Still, Lt. Barnhart clarified that this operation change does not mean investigation efforts are ceasing.
“The investigation will continue to move forward,” he added.
In the meantime, authorities did reveal that the other teens and adults involved in the investigation have been “very cooperative,” and the public will remain updated with any new developments.
Following the press conference, hundreds of California community members who have been following Kiely’s case also took to social media to share their hopes for the investigation.
“Prayers for her family and all of the agencies assisting in trying to locate her. This is just heartbreaking,” wrote one Facebook user.
“This is so devastating. We have been watching every day. Hoping for her safe return,” said another user.
