Rochester Teen Found Dead in Woods in Homicide, Police Investigation Underway
A heartbreaking discovery was made over the weekend in Rochester, as the body of a missing teenager was found in the woods. Jakarah Lopez-Moore, a 16-year-old girl, had been reported missing by her family back in August. Tragically, her remains were found decomposed, indicating that she had been there for an unknown period of time.
According to the Rochester Police Department, Lopez-Moore’s body was discovered in the woods behind 5 Vanguard Parkway on Saturday. The Monroe County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed that her death was the result of a homicide, although they have not revealed the specific details of how she was killed.
Lopez-Moore’s family had reported her missing on August 29, stating that she had left her Weld Street home two days earlier and had not returned. They expressed concern for her safety at the time, heightening the urgency of the search efforts.
Vanguard Parkway, the location where the teenager’s body was found, is situated just off Emerson Street, to the east of Lee Road and Route 390.
This devastating incident marks the 49th homicide in Rochester so far this year, according to the Rochester Police Department’s Open Data portal. Authorities are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding Lopez-Moore’s disappearance and subsequent death, seeking answers to determine those responsible for this tragic loss of life.
The police are urging anyone with information regarding Lopez-Moore’s activities or anyone who may have seen her since August 27 to come forward. They can provide information by calling 911, contacting the RPD’s Major Crimes Unit at (585) 428-7175, or reaching out to CrimeStoppers at (585) 423-9300.
Our team at the Democrat and Chronicle has been in touch with Lopez-Moore’s family throughout this distressing ordeal, documenting their experiences during the search. We will soon provide further updates with additional information as it becomes available.
The loss of Jakarah Lopez-Moore has shaken the community, and our thoughts are with her loved ones during this unimaginably difficult time. As the investigation continues, we hope for answers and justice in her name.
