By: Richard L. Smith
Newark police are asking for the public’s assistance in locating a 17-year-old girl who was reported missing Tuesday afternoon.
According to Newark Public Safety Director Emanuel Miranda, Sr., Maria Loja Guasco, of Newark, was last seen at approximately 2:50 p.m. on October 27, 2026, near South Street and Orchard Street.
Authorities described Maria as Hispanic, standing 5 feet 2 inches tall and weighing approximately 160 pounds. She has black hair and brown eyes.
At the time of her disappearance, Maria was wearing a pink shirt, gray pants and pink sandals. Police said her entire face was covered in red makeup when she was last seen.
Anyone with information about Maria's whereabouts is urged to contact the Newark Police Division's 24-hour Crime Stopper tip line at 1-877-NWK-TIPS (1-877-695-8477).