Kehlani Rogers Abduction: 3-Year-Old Missing, 23-Year-Old Suspect Sought in Arizona
Kehlani Rogers abduction alert: 3-year-old vanishes in Arizona as police target 23-year-old suspect. Check suspect details, timeline, and submit tips
Avondale, Arizona authorities are urgently searching for 3-year-old Kehlani Rogers, who was reportedly abducted from her home near 119th Avenue and West Thomas Road around 11:30 p.m. on February 20, 2026. An Amber Alert was issued on February 21 after police confirmed that Kehlani was taken without permission and believe her life may be in danger. The young girl was last seen wearing pink pajamas and is described as standing approximately 3 feet tall, with a thin build, hazel eyes, and brown hair in braids.
Authorities have identified the alleged abductor as 23-year-old Mariana Noriega, previously referred to as “Merena” in initial reports. Surveillance footage shows Noriega with Kehlani in the City of Maricopa, where the child was reportedly wearing purple pajamas with multicolor smiley faces, while Noriega wore a black and white tank top with pink fuzzy pants. Police stress that the abduction was unplanned, with no prior conversation or agreement, which has heightened concerns for Kehlani’s safety.
Investigators have also addressed a circulating photograph of a woman allegedly connected to the case, urging the individual to contact the department for verification, while cautioning the public that the image’s authenticity remains unconfirmed. Police have not released additional details about the method of abduction, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation.
The Amber Alert has mobilized law enforcement and the community, emphasizing the urgent need to locate Kehlani safely. Authorities are asking residents and businesses in Avondale, Maricopa, and surrounding areas to remain vigilant and report any sightings of the child or the suspect immediately. A reward of up to $1,000 is being offered for information leading to Kehlani’s safe return.
Kehlani’s family, neighbors, and the local community are deeply concerned, and police are appealing for the public’s assistance. Anyone with information regarding Kehlani Rogers or Mariana Noriega is urged to contact the Avondale Police Department at 623-333-7000 or Silent Witness at 480-948-6377.
This tragic situation underscores the critical importance of rapid response in child abduction cases. Law enforcement continues to pursue every lead, while the community prays for the safe recovery of Kehlani Rogers and calls for accountability for those responsible.
