News Summary
Authorities in Florida successfully located 2-month-old Laya Strain after she was reported missing. Following a swift Missing Child Alert, she was found on Sunday, bringing relief to the community. Laya was last seen in Old Town, dressed in pink, and the investigation continues into the circumstances of her disappearance. Law enforcement emphasizes the importance of community vigilance and support in protecting children.
Florida authorities have located 2-month-old Laya Strain safe after she was reported missing in northern Florida. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) confirmed that Laya was found on Sunday afternoon, with the announcement made at 5:14 PM.
Initially reported missing on Saturday night, a Missing Child Alert was rapidly issued following her disappearance, which took place in Old Town, Florida. Laya was last seen in the 300 block of Northeast 293rd Avenue, dressed in a pink one-piece outfit. The infant is described as Caucasian, standing 1 foot 11 inches tall, and weighing 12 pounds. She has brown hair and hazel eyes.
Authorities had expressed concern that Laya may have been in the company of 36-year-old Sara Strain, who is also described as Caucasian, 5 feet 4 inches tall, and weighing 160 pounds, with blonde hair and brown eyes. It was believed they may have traveled to the nearby Gilchrist County area.
The circumstances surrounding Laya’s disappearance remain under investigation as law enforcement officials seek to gather more information about the events leading up to her being reported missing. They have tasked the Dixie County Sheriff’s Office with leading the investigation, encouraging anyone with information to come forward and contact them at 352-498-1245 or call 911.
This incident has raised concerns within the local community, prompting swift action from law enforcement and community members concerned about the safety and well-being of the child. The rapid issuance of the Missing Child Alert and the subsequent recovery of Laya highlights the importance of community vigilance and law enforcement resources in ensuring the safety of vulnerable individuals, especially children.
As the investigation continues, authorities continue to stress the necessity of community support in such cases. The swift response from law enforcement and the public’s cooperation played a crucial role in quickly locating the infant and bringing her to safety.
Background information regarding the circumstances of Laya’s disappearance highlights ongoing issues surrounding child welfare and safety in the region. This incident serves as a reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by young children and the critical role that timely alerts and community involvement play in protecting them.
The FDLE, along with local law enforcement agencies, remains committed to ensuring that all children are safe and secure, actively pursuing leads and encouraging open communication with the public as they navigate the details of this case. Based on the developments in this case, authorities will keep the community informed as they provide updates on the investigation’s progress.
Residents are urged to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activity that could threaten the safety of children in the area. The recovery of Laya Strain offers some relief to the community, but it is coupled with a strong call for continued awareness and preventative measures to protect all children.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- WSVN: Florida Missing Child Alert Issued for 2-Month-Old Girl
- Wikipedia: Missing Person
- ABC Action News: Missing Child Alert in Florida
- Google Search: Florida Missing Child Alert
- Click Orlando: Florida Missing Child Alert for Baby
- Google Scholar: Missing Children
- WTSP: Florida Missing Child 2-Month-Old
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Missing Children
- WSVN: 2-Month-Old Girl Reported Missing Found Safe
- Google News: Florida Missing Child

Author: STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER
ORLANDO STAFF WRITER The ORLANDO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOrlando.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Orlando, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, Megacon Orlando, and Central Florida Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Orlando Economic Partnership and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro Orlando, plus leading businesses in leisure and hospitality that power the local economy such as Walt Disney World Resort, AdventHealth, and Universal Orlando. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.