Concern is mounting in Texas after a pregnant woman vanished under troubling circumstances, leaving behind nearly all of her belongings and a message that has alarmed her family.
Authorities and volunteers are actively searching for 23-year-old Ashanti Allen, who was eight months pregnant at the time of her disappearance. The case has drawn heightened urgency due to what has been described as a high-risk pregnancy. Texas EquuSearch announced it is offering a $5,000 reward for information leading to the rescue or recovery of Allen and her unborn child.
Allen was last seen on April 8 after accompanying her mother, Trisa Gaines, to a medical appointment. According to family members, she returned to her apartment complex afterward. Two days later, Gaines received a text message that immediately raised concern.
“On April 10 around 3:50 that morning, a text sent to me: ‘I am leaving, not coming back,’ ” Gaines said. “I didn’t believe that she sent that.”
Gaines reported that when she went to check on her daughter, Allen was not at home. Inside the apartment, however, there were clear signs that something was wrong. Personal belongings, baby clothes, and a hospital bag prepared for delivery were all left behind.
“All her stuff was there, baby clothes there, nothing was taken. The bag she packed for the hospital still sitting there,” Gaines said.
Family members also noted that Allen’s disappearance is highly unusual given her medical condition and limited mobility. Gaines stated that her daughter had been using a wheelchair after fainting during her pregnancy and was struggling to walk.
The only item missing from the residence was a white Lincoln SUV belonging to the family.
As the search continues, Gaines has made a direct appeal to her daughter: “If you are seeing this, all we want to know is you are okay.”
Anyone with information is urged to contact authorities.
