Police in Wadowice launched a search for a 12-year-old girl who ran into the woods barefoot during an emotional crisis on January 22.
Search Begins
Police in Wadowice (Małopolskie voivodeship) received a report on Thursday, January 22, about a 12-year-old girl who had run away barefoot from home towards a forest. The girl was in an emotional crisis and dressed inadequately for the weather, creating a serious risk to her health and life.
Officers immediately launched a search, deploying all available police on duty, including officers from subordinate units. A police dog handler and a drone operator were also at the scene. Services conducted intensive searches focusing on the forest area mentioned in the report.
Girl Found
The search concluded quickly thanks to the officers’ familiarity with the local area. The 12-year-old was found in the forest wearing a short-sleeved shirt and no shoes. She was visibly chilled. Police reported that communication with the child was difficult.
Officers provided assistance, giving the girl their jackets to help her warm up. They then carried her out of the wooded area and into a police vehicle, where they awaited paramedics. “Until the ambulance arrived, officers monitored her condition and ensured her safety. The 12-year-old was then taken to a hospital for medical care,” police stated.
Police Statement
“Thanks to the rapid response of services, efficient coordination of actions, and the commitment of police officers—especially local precinct officers—a tragedy was averted. This incident shows how crucial an immediate reaction is to reports of threats to life and health, especially involving children and young people in emotional crisis,” police wrote.
