Missing Laurel 9-Year-Old Found Safe at Scotchtown Hills Elementary

Authorities say Jeanne Bioj, a 9-year-old Laurel girl who was reported missing Tuesday night, has been found safe and sound after an extensive search.

According to Laurel spokesman Pete Piringer, Bioj was found by a detective around 7:30 a.m. in the cafeteria of Scotchtown Hills Elementary, where she is a fourth grader.

Family notified Laurel police that she was missing around 10:30 p.m. Tuesday, Piringer said, prompting police to deploy significant resources.

Authorities worked through the night contacting friends and famiy and searching the area. Bloohounds were sent into action, and a scent trail was located on Millbrook Lane.

Aviation support was also requested from Howard County policet. The Chesapeake Search & Rescue Team and a Prince George's County dive team were called in to assist shortly before her discovery Wednesday morning, Piringer said.

But the search was called off when Bioj was located at Scotchtown Hills, where she had apparently spent the night.

"She found an area that was safe and secure for her," Piringer said.

Officials believe she may have slipped into the school through a door that was left unlocked by cleaning crews still working at the school Tuesday night.

Authorities notified the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children of Bioj's disappearance, Piringer added. The incident did not meet the criteria for an Amber Alert, which is reserved for suspected abductions.