Missing South Carolina Teen Mackenzie Dalton Found Safe After Monthlong Search; Mackenzie Keith English Jr., 18, Arrested

Mackenzie Dalton, a 16-year-old girl reported missing from Lexington County, South Carolina, has been found safe following a monthlong investigation. Authorities also confirmed the arrest of Mackenzie Keith English Jr., 18, in connection with the case.

The Lexington County Sheriff’s Office announced that Dalton was located within Lexington County after deputies followed multiple investigative leads. Officials stated there is no indication that Dalton was held against her will or that she was with anyone she did not want to be with.

Dalton was reported missing after she was last seen leaving her home in late November, according to a statement released by the sheriff’s office on January 2. Due to her age and the length of time she was missing, authorities classified her as an endangered juvenile.

During the investigation, deputies recovered the vehicle Dalton used to leave her home as well as the suitcase she took with her. Investigators said Dalton had left willingly, cut off communication with her family, and did not maintain contact while she was away.

South Carolina’s Mackenzie Dalton, 16, was found safe after she was reported missing late last year.

Authorities previously indicated Dalton may have been with a man she knew but did not publicly identify him at the time. Following further investigation, deputies arrested Mackenzie Keith English Jr., 18, charging him with obstruction of justice.

According to law enforcement, English allegedly lied to investigators about being with Dalton and about his knowledge of her whereabouts during the search. He is currently being held at the Lexington County Detention Center.

Dalton, who is described as 5 feet 4 inches tall and weighing approximately 118 pounds, has since been located safely as the investigation concludes.