Des Moines, IA — The search for 16-year-old Alek Yel continues in Des Moines, Iowa, nearly eleven months after she went missing on February 22, 2025. Despite the passage of time, Alek’s family and local authorities remain deeply concerned for her safety, holding onto hope that someone will come forward with information to bring clarity and closure.

Alek’s disappearance has left a lasting impact on her loved ones, who continue to live with unanswered questions and a persistent sense of worry. Family members emphasize that any piece of information—no matter how small—could be crucial in locating her. Authorities encourage the public to revisit memories from that time frame; sometimes, what seemed insignificant at the moment may now hold the key to her whereabouts.

Investigators and community volunteers have worked tirelessly to follow leads, canvass neighborhoods, and spread awareness about Alek’s case. Posters, social media campaigns, and community events aim to keep Alek’s story visible, reminding residents that her case is still active and that tips could make a difference.

Time can distort details, but it can also provide perspective. Someone may now recall seeing Alek later than initially reported, in another part of town, or during a moment previously thought irrelevant. Those recollections, however minor they may seem, could help authorities piece together the events of that day and bring Alek home safely.