News Summary
A 19-year-old man named Jeremiah Tannehill, reported missing after being last seen near Culver Drive and Trabuco Road, has been found safe. His return brought relief to his family and community. In a separate case, concerns grow for Vanessa Alkurd, who has been missing since December 20. Family members appeal for information regarding her whereabouts, highlighting the importance of community involvement in addressing missing persons cases.
Irvine – A 19-year-old man, Jeremiah Tannehill, who went missing on Saturday has been found safe, according to the Irvine Police Department. Tannehill was reported missing after he was last seen at approximately 2 a.m. near Culver Drive and Trabuco Road. The police department confirmed his return home at 9:40 p.m. on the same day, bringing relief to his family and the community as a whole.
The circumstances surrounding Tannehill’s disappearance prompted immediate action from local law enforcement, who began searching for him shortly after receiving the report. The case is illustrative of the community’s concern for missing persons, particularly young adults.
Concerns for Vanessa Alkurd
In another missing persons case, the family of Vanessa Alkurd, a 19-year-old woman, has expressed growing concern for her safety after she was last seen on December 20. Vanessa, who had recently celebrated her birthday on December 28, was last reported taking out the trash.
Her mother, Mayelli Alkurd, indicated that Vanessa had been experiencing significant stress from her educational obligations. As the oldest sibling, Vanessa has four younger brothers and sisters who look up to her. In addition, she is known for her active involvement in volunteering within the community.
Worry escalated among the family members after they discovered a note suggesting that Vanessa might be in distress related to concerns for her family’s safety. Notably, she left behind her passport, cash, and clothing, leading to speculation that she had possibly planned to leave home.
Possible Sightings and Search Efforts
Reports have surfaced indicating that Vanessa was seen at the Tarbiya House mosque on December 24 and December 30, where she reportedly received financial assistance. Following those sightings, Vanessa’s family received an anonymous tip that urged them to search for her in Roseville, near Sacramento.
Family members, especially her grandmother Eldemira Ponce, have taken to social media and other communication channels, pleading for Vanessa to reach out and confirm her safety. They are also appealing to the public for assistance in locating her.
Call for Information
The family is asking anyone with information regarding Vanessa’s whereabouts to contact the Irvine police at (949) 724-7000. Authorities are committed to taking every report seriously as they work to ensure the safety of both Vanessa and others reported missing.
Community Support
The cases of Tannehill and Alkurd highlight the broader issue of safety among young adults in the community. As missing persons cases can often evoke immense concern among families and friends, the local authorities aim to enhance awareness and responsiveness to these situations.
The swift resolution of Tannehill’s case contrasts with the ongoing uncertainty surrounding Alkurd’s situation, and underscores the importance of community vigilance, support, and the involvement of law enforcement in addressing such critical instances.
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Additional Resources
- MyNewsLA: 19-Year-Old Irvine Man Found Safe
- Wikipedia: Missing Person
- ABC7: Family Desperate for Information on Missing Woman
- Google Search: Vanessa Alkurd
- Irvine Times: Police Seek Public Help for Missing Teen
- Google Scholar: Missing Persons Awareness
- KTLA: Missing Girl Found, Suspect Arrested
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Missing Persons
- CBS News: Man Arrested for Human Trafficking
- Google News: Irvine Human Trafficking

Author: STAFF HERE COSTA MESA WRITER
COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER The COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECostaMesa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Costa Mesa, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the OC Fair, Concerts in the Park, and Fish Fry. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Costa Mesa Chamber of Commerce and Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Orange Coast, plus leading businesses in retail, fashion, and technology that power the local economy such as Vans, Experian, and South Coast Plaza. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, HERESanDiego.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.