By: Tracie Carter
Authorities in Newark are asking for the public’s help in locating a missing teenager, according to Newark Public Safety Director Emanuel Miranda Sr.
The search is underway for Lovely Mells, 15, of Newark, who was reported missing on Thursday, December 18, 2025.
According to officials, Lovely was last seen at approximately 12:07 a.m. outside the YMCA building in the 600 block of Mayor Kenneth A. Gibson Boulevard.
Authorities said that when a case worker approached her and asked where she was going, Lovely did not respond and walked away from the area.
Lovely is described as African American with a light-brown complexion, standing about 5 feet 3 inches tall and weighing approximately 120 pounds.
She has long black and pink braids and brown eyes.
At the time she was last seen, she was wearing a black coat, gray sweatpants, and black sneakers, and was carrying a large black duffel bag.
Police noted that she is known to be a frequent runaway.
Director Miranda urges anyone with information about the whereabouts of Lovely Mells to contact the Newark Police Division’s 24-hour Crime Stopper tip line at 1-877-NWK-TIPS.