The Lexington County Sheriff’s Department reports 16-year-old Mackenzie Dalton as an endangered runaway missing since late November 2025 from her Lexington, South Carolina home. She is 5-foot-4, weighs 118 pounds, has long blonde hair and light eyes, and is believed to be with a man she knows; her car and suitcase have been recovered but location details undisclosed.
Current Status
No updates indicate Dalton has been found as of early January 2026; authorities continue seeking public tips via the Midlands Crimestoppers app or (888) 274-6372 anonymously. For immediate sightings, call 911 directly.
South Carolina Missing Persons Context
Over 2,500 people go missing annually in South Carolina, with children and runaways comprising a significant portion; SLED reported over 200 missing children in both 2022 and 2023. Recent data shows high vulnerability for youth, often linked to socio-economic factors or exploitation risks.
Legal Implications
South Carolina classifies kidnapping as a felony with up to 30 years imprisonment, though no specific crime is confirmed in Dalton’s case and no suspect details released. The accompanying adult could face charges if involvement escalates beyond runaway status.
