Missing NC teen returns home | Schools

HUDSON - The Caldwell County Sheriff's Office said a missing 15-year-old girl returned home five days after she was last seen.

Marlena Church left South Caldwell High School on her own around 1 p.m. on January 2.

Authorities believed she may have been in the Hickory or High Point area with an 18-year-old man.

Marlena came home safely on January 7, the sheriff's office said.

“We are grateful that this young lady is home safe and sound.  I would like to remind parents to pay attention to their children’s online activities and who they are talking too,” Sheriff Alan Jones said.