Runaway Teen Found Safe: McAllen Police Hunt for Suspect Hiding Her

A 16-year-old girl who had been missing for several days is now safely back with her family, thanks to the dedicated efforts of McAllen police. Angie Dardon, who had been reported as a runaway, was located and returned home last week, providing relief to her loved ones who had been desperately seeking her whereabouts.

However, the situation remains tense as the McAllen Police Department (MPD) continues its search for Samuel De Leon Valdez, the man accused of hiding the teen. According to authorities, Valdez is wanted for allegedly harboring Dardon after she left home. The department has been actively working to track him down, but as of the latest reports, Valdez remains at large.

The Search for Samuel De Leon Valdez
The manhunt for Valdez has now entered a critical phase. McAllen Police have identified his last known location in San Benito, Texas. Despite this lead, law enforcement officials have yet to capture him. As the investigation continues, the MPD has called on the public for help, urging anyone who knows of Valdez’s whereabouts to come forward.

The department has released a contact number for tips and information related to the case: 956-687-8477. In an effort to encourage tips from the community, the police are emphasizing that all calls will be treated confidentially, and there may be rewards for any helpful information.

A Community’s Role in the Investigation
Cases like this are often resolved not just through the efforts of law enforcement but also through the vigilant eyes of the community. Authorities are asking residents in and around San Benito and McAllen to stay alert for any signs of Valdez or additional information that could lead to his capture.

“We rely heavily on the public’s assistance in these types of cases,” said a spokesperson for the McAllen Police Department. “The smallest piece of information could be crucial in helping us locate this suspect.”

A Reminder of the Importance of Safety and Awareness
As this case highlights, the issue of missing teens is a concerning reality that requires constant vigilance. Whether it’s a case of a runaway or abduction, the safety of young people remains a top priority for law enforcement and the community alike.

Experts say that the best way to prevent such incidents is through open communication between parents, schools, and law enforcement agencies. Additionally, keeping informed about the warning signs and patterns of runaway behavior can help in preventing young people from going missing in the first place.

How You Can Help
If you have any information regarding the whereabouts of Samuel De Leon Valdez, or if you believe you may have seen him recently, please contact McAllen Police at the phone number above. Your tip could be the key to solving this case and bringing the situation to a safe resolution.

For more information on safety tips or resources regarding missing persons, visit the McAllen Police Department’s official website here or contact local law enforcement agencies directly.

Government and Law Enforcement Contacts
For tips or to report a crime, reach out to the following resources:

• McAllen Police Department: https://www.mcallen.net/departments/police
• San Benito Police Department: https://www.sanbenitotx.gov/police-department
• Texas Crime Stoppers: https://www.crimestopperstx.org
• McAllen Police Tip Line: 956-687-8477