Tragic Update: Missing Teen Madeline Soto Believed Dead, Investigation Shifts to Recovery Efforts

Authorities in Orange County have delivered a heartbreaking update regarding the case of missing teenager Madeline Soto, with Sheriff John Mina announcing that they now believe the 13-year-old girl is deceased. The Orange County Sheriff’s Office shared this devastating news with Madeline’s mother, shifting the focus of the investigation towards locating her body.

It was revealed that Stephan Sterns, the boyfriend of Madeline’s mother, is considered the prime suspect in this tragic case. Detectives concluded that Madeline was never dropped off at Hunter’s Creek Middle School as previously claimed, and they suspect that Sterns moved her body in the early hours of the day she was reported missing.

Video evidence captured Sterns discarding items in a dumpster in Kissimmee, later confirmed to be Madeline’s belongings. Further footage showed Madeline in Sterns’ vehicle, indicating that she was already deceased at that time. Efforts are now focused on recovering Madeline’s body, with ongoing searches in undisclosed locations.

Stephan Sterns, who was arrested on separate charges of sexual battery and child sex abuse material possession, was transferred from Orange County to Osceola County. The Kissimmee Police Department is now leading the investigation as it transitions into a homicide case, with assistance from Orange County authorities in the recovery process.

Witnesses are urged to come forward if they have any information regarding Sterns, Madeline, or the silver 2010 Lincoln MKZ he was seen driving in the vicinity of State Road 192 and various intersections. Superintendent Dr. Maria Vazquez of Orange County Public Schools expressed deep sorrow over the loss of Madeline and extended support to the school community.

Counselors are available to assist students and staff coping with the tragic news. As the community mourns the loss of one of their own, investigators continue to seek leads and piece together the events leading to Madeline’s presumed death.