Disappearance of Clara and Héléna: The two teenagers found safe and sound, two men in police custody

After six days of concern, Clara and Héléna, two 14 and 15-year-old high school students who went missing on Thursday, January 23, after school, have been found in good health. The case has taken a legal turn with the detention of two adult men.

A mysterious disappearance after school

Clara and Héléna, third-year students at a middle school in Sainte-Savine (Aube), had left the school as usual on that Thursday afternoon. However, instead of returning home, they went missing, quickly causing concern for their families.

According to Jennifer, Clara’s mother, the teenagers had misled their parents about their schedules, claiming they finished classes later than they actually did. By that evening, the prolonged absence of the two friends had raised serious concerns.

A quick investigation opened

The following day, the public prosecutor’s office in Troyes launched an investigation for the worrying disappearance, considering their young age. Investigators then conducted interviews, analyzed video surveillance footage, and carried out phone investigations.

A search notice was issued on Wednesday, January 29, as anxiety grew among their loved ones.

The avenues explored: runaway and school harassment

Clara’s mother revealed that her daughter had taken several personal belongings before disappearing, including brand-name clothes. She also mentioned possible emotional distress linked to a past of school bullying, although the teenager, who had been seeing a professional, appeared to be doing better.

Meanwhile, Héléna’s family discovered exchanges on Snapchat suggesting the young girl had been talking about running away.

A resolution with unclear details

Ultimately, Clara and Héléna were found safe and sound on the afternoon of January 29. The exact circumstances of their disappearance remain unclear, as do the location where they were found.

However, the investigation has taken a new turn with the detention of two adult men, suspected of corruption of minors. The authorities have not yet clarified the charges against them.

The case, which kept the teenagers’ families on edge and sparked significant public concern, raises many questions that the investigation will need to answer.