A Galveston County mother is desperately seeking help to find her missing daughter, Shanell Pierre, who has been missing for over three weeks amid concerns over her mental health.
GALVESTON-A: A mother from Galveston County is requesting assistance locating her missing daughter, Shanell Pierre, who has not been heard from in more than three weeks.
On August 10, 2024, Maria Goffney, Pierre's mother, reported that she transported her 42-year-old daughter to a psychiatric facility in Houston after Pierre exhibited erratic behavior that was associated with her paranoid schizophrenia.
Goffney was under the impression that her daughter had been committed to treatment. However, Pierre contacted her the following day to inform her that she was not at the facility and had since vanished.
"She has been absent for a few weeks." Goffney's voice was heaving with concern as she conveyed, "I pray daily that she is alive." The mother shares, “I'm very worried because she's never been missing this long."
Phyllis Moore, Pierre's cousin, reiterated Goffney's concerns, stating that the family has been conducting an active search for her in a variety of locations, such as homeless camps and shelters, but to no avail. "We are extremely concerned about her two children." We desire for her to return home. Moore further stated, "We cherish her."
According to the Houston Police Department, they are currently investigating Pierre's disappearance and are encouraging anyone with information to come forward. Goffney appealed to the community, "If you are aware of her whereabouts, please contact the police," in the hopes that someone might have witnessed her daughter or possess information that could facilitate her safe return.
Goffney's daughter was characterized as having experienced substantial mental health challenges, which made her disappearance all the more concerning.
The family is providing support and encouragement to anyone who may be able to help with the search. According to Goffney, "We’ve tried everything we can think of, but we need help from the community. "
The family remains optimistic that Pierre will be located safely as the search continues. They are imploring anyone who may have seen her or knows her whereabouts to contact the Houston Police Department's missing persons division.
The emotional toll of the situation is apparent as Goffney and her family attempt to reconcile the uncertainty surrounding Pierre's fate. "Every day that goes by without hearing from her is a day filled with worry and fear," Goffney expressed regret. "We just want her home."
