Efforts Continue in the Search for Missing San Antonio Girl
San Antonio has been deeply affected by the heartbreaking case of Lina Sardar Khil, who vanished nearly three years ago from her apartment complex playground. The little girl was just three years old when she disappeared, making this heartbreaking situation feel all the more painful for her family as they have now been living without her nearly as long as they had her.
A Community United for Answers
Over the past years, the community has rallied around Lina’s family, desperately hoping for answers and pushing for greater efforts to find her. Groups and individuals have come together to spread awareness through social media, distribute flyers, and keep her story at the forefront of community conversations. Despite these efforts, the San Antonio Police Department (SAPD) seems to be taking a more conservative route, keeping a tight lid on the investigation.
Recently, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), a national nonprofit organization, expressed a desire to become more involved in Lina’s case. They even have a specialized team known as “Team Adam”, composed of retired law enforcement professionals skilled in investigating missing person cases. This team offers resources, strategies, and new perspectives to local law enforcement which can often be incredibly useful in such challenging cases.
Limited Cooperation from Local Police
Despite the offer for additional assistance, SAPD has limited the involvement of NCMEC’s Team Adam. A representative from the department emphasized that they need to protect the integrity of the case, which they consider an ongoing investigation. Although NCMEC has assisted with creating age progression photos and getting the word out about Lina’s case, the police department has so far declined further help from Team Adam.
“We have not requested the help of Team Adam, as this is still an active and open case,” an SAPD spokesperson noted. They reassured the public that their detectives continue to follow up on every lead. However, Lina’s family advocate, Pamela Allen, has voiced frustrations regarding this decision. In her words, “What is just very daunting is looking at the fact that a national agency is asking to be involved in this case and that SAPD is shutting them down.”
A Family’s Frustration
According to Allen, the family is growing increasingly skeptical of SAPD’s efforts. “Lina’s family feels there is nothing active about this,” she explained. They yearn for fresh eyes from experienced investigators who may offer new insights into their daughter’s case. The advocate believes that a law should be established allowing families to have input on who can assist in their case, particularly if well-vetted, experienced organizations are willing to help.
SAPD maintains that two dedicated detectives are currently working on Lina’s case, backed by their Missing Persons Unit. And yet, as the years drift by, the feeling of urgency skyrockets as the family continues to endure a painful silence.
Call for Information
In light of the lack of recent developments, the community must remain vigilant in their search for Lina. SAPD urges anyone with information regarding Lina Sardar Khil’s whereabouts to come forward. The department encourages anyone to call (210) 207-2313 with any leads—no matter how small they think that information might be. Every little bit counts when it comes to searching for a precious child who deserves to be home with her family.
As San Antonio continues to rally around Lina’s family, hopes remain high that one day soon they will receive the news they have longed for—the return of their beloved little girl.
