New Orleans teen Malasia Gillam, 16, reported missing on May 3. Police issue endangered child advisory, urging public help in search.
The city of New Orleans is searching for answers after 16‑year‑old Malasia Gillam was reported missing on May 3, 2026.
Police say she may be in imminent danger, and a Level II Endangered/Missing Child Advisory has been issued by Louisiana State Police.
Malasia Gillam is a teenager from New Orleans. She is described as 4’1” tall, weighing 110 pounds, with long light brown hair and brown eyes. At the time she disappeared, she was wearing a gray jacket, black tank top, and black pants.
Her last known location was her home on Saint Claude Avenue near Reynes Street. She left on foot, but no one knows where she went.
Authorities issued a Level II Endangered/Missing Child Advisory. This alert is used when police believe a child is in serious danger.
It is stronger than a routine missing person notice and is designed to mobilize both law enforcement and the public quickly.
The New Orleans Police Department is leading the investigation. Louisiana State Police are supporting the search by spreading the advisory statewide. Officers are urging anyone with information to call 504‑821‑2222 or dial 911 immediately.
Even small details, such as seeing someone who matches Malasia’s description, could help bring her home.
The disappearance has shaken the local community. Neighbors, friends, and advocacy groups are sharing Malasia’s photo and description across social media platforms. This grassroots effort is vital because it spreads awareness beyond traditional news outlets.
Local child safety organizations are also reminding families to stay alert and to report anything unusual. They emphasize that protecting children requires quick action and cooperation.
Malasia’s case is part of a larger issue. Every year, thousands of children are reported missing in the United States. While many are found quickly, others remain missing for weeks or longer. Some face dangerous situations.
Experts say that speed is critical. The faster alerts are issued and shared, the better the chances of recovery.
In Malasia’s case, the quick response by Louisiana State Police shows how seriously they are treating her disappearance.
Search efforts depend not only on police but also on the public. Everyday citizens can expand the reach of investigators by staying alert.
A passerby who notices Malasia, or a neighbor who recalls seeing her, could provide the breakthrough authorities need.
Sharing verified information is key. Rumors can harm investigations, so people are encouraged to rely on updates from Louisiana State Police, New Orleans Police Department, and local news outlets.
The message from authorities is clear: stay vigilant. If you see Malasia Gillam or know anything about her whereabouts, contact police immediately. Do not wait or assume someone else will make the call.
For New Orleans, Malasia’s disappearance is more than a police matter. It is a community concern. Families are talking to their children, neighbors are watching closely, and everyone is hoping for her safe return.
Her family and city are united in determination. They are waiting for the moment when Malasia is found and brought home safely.
