Missing Louisiana Teen Found Hidden in Pittsburgh Basement Box, Police Report
A 13-year-old girl from Louisiana, reported missing, was discovered in a basement in Pittsburgh’s Brighton Heights area. The incident occurred when local police executed a search warrant at a residence on Davis Avenue on Thursday evening around 7 p.m.
Missing Louisiana Teen Found in Pittsburgh Basement
According to police reports, the girl was found concealed in a box, covered with a sheet. The Pittsburgh SWAT team played a crucial role in the operation, leading to the arrest of 26-year-old Ki-Shawn Crumity. Authorities claim that Crumity had confined the girl in his basement for several days.
Background of the Investigation
The investigation originated in Louisiana and involved the U.S. Marshals, who were contacted by local police to assist in locating the missing teen. This inquiry traced back to Columbus, Georgia, where 62-year-old Ronald Smith was arrested. Smith, along with another individual, is accused of transporting the girl from Baton Rouge to Georgia and subsequently placing her on a bus to Pittsburgh.
- Timeline of Events:
- Missing report filed in Louisiana: Date not specified
- Arrest of Ronald Smith: Date not specified
- Girl seen in Washington, D.C.: Date not specified, accompanied by a woman
- Search warrant executed in Pittsburgh: Thursday, around 7 p.m.
Circumstances Surrounding the Case
Law enforcement indicated that after arriving in Pittsburgh, the girl was taken to Crumity’s residence. It was reported that Crumity met her through Snapchat and promised to arrange an adoption with a trusted adult. Upon arrival, the girl allegedly received alcohol and edibles shortly after her arrival.
Crumity is accused of engaging in sexual acts with the girl multiple times during her stay. This series of events raised serious red flags, prompting Pittsburgh police to investigate further. A ChildLine report from the U.S. Marshals ultimately led police to locate the girl at Crumity’s house.
Legal Consequences
Crumity is currently being held in the Allegheny County Jail facing numerous charges, including:
- Trafficking
- Sexual assault
- Corruption of a minor
The situation highlights the dangers posed by online interactions and the critical role of law enforcement in protecting vulnerable individuals. Further developments in this case are expected as authorities continue their investigations.
