Local News
Missing 14-year-old Harleigh Shew found safe
Update: She has been found safe.
Authorities and family members are seeking the public’s assistance in locating Harleigh Shew, a 14-year-old female who has been reported missing from Harrisburg, Illinois, and may be in the Mt. Vernon area.
Missing Since: December 27, 2025
Description
- Age: 14
- Sex: Female
- Race: White
- Height: Approximately 5 feet 2 inches
- Weight: Approximately 100 pounds
- Hair: Brown/blonde with pink coloring
- Eyes: Blue
Harleigh was last seen on Saturday evening at approximately 10:45 p.m. leaving a friend’s residence in Harrisburg, Illinois.
Family members report she may have left with a 19-year-old male identified only as Ethan, last name unknown, who is believed to be from Mt. Vernon, Illinois.
It is possible Harleigh is currently in or around the Mt. Vernon area with this individual.
At the time she was last seen, Harleigh was wearing:
- Black leggings
- A light pink hoodie
- A black jacket
- Cheetah-print shoes
Harleigh was in possession of her cellphone; however, it has since been turned off, and her family has not had any contact with her since she left the residence.
Anyone who has seen Harleigh Shew, knows her current whereabouts, or has any information that may assist in locating her is urged to contact law enforcement immediately:
- Mt. Vernon Police Department: 618-242-2131
- Harrisburg Police Department: 618-252-4528
You may also contact her mother:
- Kelsey Sanford: 618-771-7451
Please share this information to help bring Harleigh home safely.
Local News
Train Derails in Ferguson Involving Vehicles, Hazmat Team Called Over Ethyl Alcohol Rail Car
FERGUSON, Mo. — A train derailment involving vehicles prompted an emergency response in Ferguson on Ferguson Avenue, where authorities requested a hazardous materials team after determining that one of the train cars contained ethyl alcohol.
Emergency units were dispatched to 617 Ferguson Avenue after reports of the rail incident. Responders found a train that had derailed with vehicles involved.
Officials confirmed there was no reported entrapment. Crews were checking the scene for injuries and evaluating those involved in the incident.
A Hazmat response was requested because one rail car involved in the derailment was carrying ethyl alcohol. Emergency crews were assessing the rail car for any potential leak or hazardous condition and working to secure the area.
The presence of ethyl alcohol prompted additional safety precautions while responders examined the derailed train and surrounding vehicles.
At this time, authorities have not released details about possible injuries, the cause of the derailment or the extent of damage.
The investigation and emergency response remain ongoing in Ferguson, and officials are expected to provide additional information once the scene has been fully assessed.