Coral Springs teen remains missing nearly one week after meeting man on Snapchat as police continue search efforts in South Florida
Coral Springs, Florida – A search effort is ongoing in South Florida after a 15-year-old girl from Coral Springs went missing nearly a week ago, with investigators saying she may have left home voluntarily after meeting someone online. Authorities, along with national missing persons organizations, are now asking for the public’s help as the case continues to develop.
The teen, identified as Skylee Merino, has not been seen or heard from since she was reported missing on Tuesday. According to information shared by police and the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children, she left her home on April 21 and was later picked up by a friend before being dropped off at the Cypress Commons plaza in nearby Tamarac. That location is believed to be where she planned to meet a male she had connected with through Snapchat.
Investigators say the situation unfolded in stages, beginning when Merino left home and met up with friends who later provided transportation. From there, she was dropped off in what has been described as a white Ford Raptor, believed to be a 2013–2014 model. According to details later shared by her sister on Facebook, the teen had left her primary phone at home but may have had access to another device.
Her last known activity on social media was around 4 p.m. on Tuesday. After that point, communication stopped, and her whereabouts remain unknown.
The same social media post also included additional details about the person she was reportedly planning to meet. According to the information shared, the individual is believed to be a Hispanic male, approximately 18 or 19 years old, who may have been driving a silver Hyundai sedan, possibly a Sonata or Elantra. Police have not confirmed these details publicly but say they are actively working to verify and follow up on all available information.
Detectives with the Coral Springs Police Department are currently leading the investigation. Their efforts include attempting to identify and locate the person Merino was supposed to meet, as well as reviewing digital communication and tracking any possible movements after she left the plaza.
At this stage, authorities have stated that there is no indication she is in immediate danger. However, the case remains open and active, with investigators continuing to treat it as a priority due to her age and the circumstances surrounding her disappearance.
Merino is described as 5 feet 4 inches tall, weighing approximately 120 pounds, with brown eyes and black hair. Officials believe she may still be in Florida, possibly in or around the Coral Springs or Tamarac areas, though no confirmed sightings have been reported.
As the search continues, law enforcement is urging anyone who may have seen her or has information about her location to come forward. Even small details, investigators say, could help move the case forward and confirm her safety.
Police have provided direct contact information for tips, asking the public to reach out to Detective Daniel Powers at 954-346-1223 or by email at [email protected]. Officials stress that the primary goal is ensuring that Merino returns home safely.
The case has also sparked broader concern about online interactions and how quickly digital connections can lead to real-world situations involving minors. While investigators continue to focus on facts and verified leads, they are also reminding the public of the importance of awareness when it comes to social media communication.
For now, the search remains active, and authorities say they are following all available leads in hopes of locating the teenager and bringing clarity to a case that is still unfolding day by day.
