Beaufort, South Carolina, January 20, 2026
Bella Monae Driver, an 11-year-old girl reported missing in Beaufort, South Carolina, has been located unharmed. The successful search concluded with community and police collaboration, emphasizing the importance of public vigilance. This case highlights the rapid response measures taken by authorities in missing persons situations, ensuring the safety of minors.
Beaufort
An 11-year-old girl, Bella Monae Driver, who had been reported missing from Beaufort, South Carolina, was safely located on Monday night. Authorities confirmed that she was found unharmed, bringing a swift and positive resolution to the search that began on January 19, 2026. The Beaufort Police Department had actively sought the public’s assistance in locating the child, emphasizing the critical nature of community vigilance in such situations.
Prompt Response and Community Involvement
The search for Bella Monae Driver commenced when she was reported missing on January 19, 2026. Upon receiving the report, the Beaufort Police Department immediately initiated protocols for a missing person investigation. This typically involves gathering detailed information about the individual, including descriptions, last known whereabouts, and any potential leads. Public alerts were issued, urging residents to be on the lookout and to provide any information that could aid in her safe return. The rapid dissemination of information plays a vital role in increasing the chances of a positive outcome in missing persons cases, especially involving minors.
Community members are often a crucial resource in these investigations. Their observations and willingness to report suspicious activities or sightings can significantly shorten search times. In this instance, the coordinated efforts between law enforcement and the public contributed to the successful resolution. When a child is reported missing, law enforcement agencies prioritize these cases due to the inherent vulnerability of minors. The prompt action taken by the Beaufort Police Department underscores the commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents, particularly children. The relief felt by the community and the family when a missing child is located safe and unharmed is immense, highlighting the emotional impact these incidents have beyond the immediate family.
Background and Previous Incidents
While the recent case of Bella Monae Driver concluded swiftly and positively, it is important to note that this was not the first time the Beaufort Police Department had sought public assistance regarding her whereabouts. Records indicate that Bella Monae Driver was also reported missing on December 2, 2024. On that occasion, the police department similarly appealed to the community for help in locating her. Each instance of a missing child report is treated with utmost seriousness, prompting a dedicated response from law enforcement. The consistent effort by the police department in responding to these situations demonstrates their unwavering commitment to child safety.
The resolution of cases involving missing children, such as Bella Monae Driver’s, serves as a reminder of the effectiveness of established protocols and the essential partnership between police and the community. The focus remains on ensuring the safety of all individuals, and the successful location of a missing child is always the primary objective. The immediate concern in such cases is to ascertain the child’s well-being and to facilitate their safe return to their guardians. The quick turnaround in finding Bella Monae Driver in the latest incident underscores the efficiency of the response.
Situations involving missing persons, particularly children, often create heightened anxiety within a community. Therefore, the dissemination of accurate and timely information by authorities is paramount. The role of local law enforcement extends beyond just search and rescue; it also involves providing reassurance to the public and maintaining transparency regarding ongoing efforts. The community’s trust in its police department is reinforced through such diligent and successful operations. The incident concluded with Bella Monae Driver safely returned, allowing the community to breathe a collective sigh of relief.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who was reported missing in Beaufort?
- An 11-year-old girl named Bella Monae Driver was reported missing in Beaufort, South Carolina.
- When was Bella Monae Driver located?
- Bella Monae Driver was safely located on Monday night.
- Was Bella Monae Driver found safe?
- Yes, authorities confirmed that she was found unharmed.
- Which police department handled the case?
- The Beaufort Police Department handled the case.
- Had Bella Monae Driver been reported missing before?
- Yes, Bella Monae Driver was also reported missing on December 2, 2024.
Key Details of Bella Monae Driver’s Case
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Name | Bella Monae Driver |
| Age | 11 years old |
| Location | Beaufort, South Carolina |
| Status | Located safe and unharmed |
| Date Reported | January 19, 2026 |
| Date Located | Monday night (January 19, 2026) |
| Authorities | Beaufort Police Department |
| Previous Incident | Reported missing on December 2, 2024 |
Now Happening on X
- @987theRiver (January 20, 2026, 7:05 AM): The Beaufort Police Department has successfully located 11-year-old Bella Monae Driver safe and unharmed after she was reported missing. View on X
- @BeaufortSC_EMS (January 20, 2026, 12:30 PM): Beaufort County EMS announces the implementation of a new 24/72 shift schedule starting February 14 to improve operations. View on X
- @bcsopio (January 17, 2026, 6:00 PM): Cold weather shelters will open Sunday in Beaufort County to provide protection from freezing temperatures. View on X
- @wcti12 (January 17, 2026, 12:51 PM): Officials are investigating multiple thefts of air conditioning units and copper wiring across Beaufort County and seeking public assistance. View on X
- @bcsopio (January 15, 2026, 6:06 AM): A Special Weather Statement is in effect until 1:00 PM Thursday for potential impacts in Beaufort County. View on X
- @bcsopio (January 14, 2026, 6:17 PM): Residents are advised to prepare for freezing temperatures, with cold weather shelters opening Thursday in Beaufort County. View on X
- @987theRiver (January 15, 2026, 1:10 AM): Beaufort County Schools is hosting two public budget forums to engage the community on upcoming financial plans. View on X
- @QuintinOnCamera (January 16, 2026, 11:34 PM): A man has been arrested in connection with a shooting at a Beaufort mobile home park, according to officials. View on X
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Author: STAFF HERE BEAUFORT
The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
