Missing South Bend Teen Zania Mason Found Safe After Silver Alert

SOUTH BEND, Ind. (WSBT) — A Silver Alert for 15-year-old Zania Mason, who had been missing since Sunday, February 9, 2025, has been canceled after she was located safe. Local authorities confirmed the news early Monday morning.

The South Bend Police Department issued the statewide Silver Alert Sunday morning, prompting widespread community support and concern. “Thank you to everyone who helped get the word out by sharing!” the police department expressed in a statement.

Zania was reported missing after her family was unable to contact her, leading to the alert being issued. The cancellation of the alert brought relief to the community, which rallied to spread awareness about her disappearance.

Silver Alerts are utilized to help locate missing adults or children who are believed to be endangered. They are issued when specific criteria are met, and their scope has expanded to include children. An Amber Alert, by contrast, is reserved for instances where children are believed to have been abducted.

In this case, the rapid circulation of information and community involvement played a crucial role in Zania’s safe recovery. The State Police were thankful for the public’s support and vigilance during the search.

Indiana State Police highlighted that the criteria for issuing a Silver Alert were met, underscoring the importance of these alerts in protecting vulnerable individuals. They stated, “We are grateful for the cooperation from the public, the media, and law enforcement agencies in spreading the word.”

As the investigation continues, authorities will review the incident to ensure similar events can be managed effectively in the future.