SHEPHARD, Texas - An AMBER Alert has been issued for Hazel Hodge-Lassiter, a 7-year-old girl who was last seen around midnight on September 25, 2024, at the 900 block of County Line Road, Shepherd, Texas. Authorities are seeking the public’s help to locate her and apprehend those responsible for her abduction.
According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, Hazel was reported missing after her parents, Brandon Lassiter, 44, and Ashley Doss-Lassiter, 41, reportedly fled the area to avoid law enforcement. The situation escalated after Child Protective Services (CPS) obtained a court order to take custody of the child. The order stemmed from concerns over the child's well-being.
Hazel is described as being approximately 4 feet tall, weighing around 50 pounds, with blonde hair and brown eyes. The alert indicates she is likely traveling with her parents, raising serious concerns for her safety.
The investigation began when CPS contacted law enforcement officials about the need to intervene when the situation involving the Hodge-Lassiter family took shape. "CPS received information necessitating immediate action," stated the San Jacinto County Sheriff's Office. When authorities attempted to serve the court order on the Lassiters, the family had vanished, prompting the issuance of the AMBER Alert.
The suspects are believed to be driving a gray 2019 Nissan Rogue with Texas license plate MDN 6176. This vehicle could provide key information for locating Hazel and her parents swiftly. Reports detail they could be planning to leave the state or remain hidden within the local communities.
The public plays a pivotal role in this situation, as authorities are urging anyone who may have seen the suspects or the vehicle to come forward. "If you have any information on the children's whereabouts, please call the San Jacinto County Sheriff’s Office at (936)653-4367," noted the Texas Department of Public Safety.
The situation is pressing, as abductions involving children are treated with high urgency, and any leads could prove invaluable. Anyone who encounters the vehicle or has information about Hazel or her parents’ whereabouts is strongly encouraged to contact local authorities or dial 911 directly.
Reportedly, multiple news outlets, including local television and radio, have picked up the AMBER Alert, amplifying the public's awareness. This notification system plays a pivotal role in quickly disseminated information about abducted children.
The child's well-being is of utmost priority, and officials are hopeful for her safe return. Families across the region are advised to be vigilant and keep watch for anything out of the ordinary, encouraging communities to look out for one another.
This abduction case is particularly concerning due to the involvement of Child Protective Services and the court order for Hazel's custody, indicating underlying issues within the family dynamics. The authorities remain vigilant as they work diligently to resolve the case.
Residents are reminded to stay informed and engaged, as community responsibility plays a significant role during such crises. The swift action of individuals who provide tips and leads can sometimes make the difference between a happy reunion and prolonged anguish.
Local police departments have coordinated efforts to monitor potential sightings of the suspects and share information across county lines. Law enforcement's collaboration with the community emphasizes the collective responsibility of ensuring the safety of vulnerable individuals.
Authorities continue to request anyone with knowledge about the situation to act immediately—time is of the essence when it involves the safety of children. Vigilance and prompt reporting are keys to addressing such urgent situations.
Everyone is hopeful for Hazel's quick and safe recovery, with the community rallying around her plight. The involvement of law enforcement, accompanied by the public's eyes and ears, paints a proactive picture of how communities can combat child abduction issues.
The current circumstances highlight the important intersection of law enforcement, family welfare, and community vigilance. Each day brings hope for the safe return of Hazel Hodge-Lassiter, yet it also brings the reality of the need for constant watchfulness for the well-being of all children.
Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and promising updates as new information becomes available. The public's determination to assist can lead to significant breakthroughs, and every tip can help keep Hazel's story alive until she is found.
