Police Renew Search for Lexington Teen Missing Since 1997, Family Hopes for Long-Awaited Answers
LEXINGTON, KENTUCKY — Nearly three decades after 14-year-old Lydia Perkins vanished, Lexington police have renewed their search for the missing teenager — a case that has haunted her family and investigators for 28 years.
Perkins disappeared from the Cardinal Valley neighborhood on October 19, 1997, when she was just a freshman in high school. Her disappearance has remained an open missing-person investigation, but with few leads emerging in recent years.
New Search in Preston’s Spring Park
On Sunday, officers launched a new search in Preston’s Spring Park, a wooded area long believed to hold potential evidence connected to the case. According to police, the renewed effort marks the first significant search in nearly 15 years.
The park had been considered a location of interest years ago, but flooding prevented a full examination at the time. Investigators revisited the area this week with specialized teams and updated technology to conduct a more thorough search.
“That area has always been an area of interest and so I’m glad they’re over there searching,” said Lydia’s brother, Justin Perkins, who has continued advocating for his sister’s case.
Family Clings to Hope After 28 Years
For the Perkins family, the renewed investigation brings a mix of hope and heartbreak. Justin said every new search rekindles painful memories but also keeps the dream of closure alive.
“I’m just hopeful for good news. It’s been a long time,” he said. “The thought of my sister being left out in the woods somewhere is devastating. She deserves to come home.”
Over nearly three decades, the family has organized vigils, spoken with detectives, and kept Lydia’s story alive in the community. Justin said the case has defined his life.
“I’ve done this for so long, I’ve thought about — if she is found — where do I go next? Because this has made me who I am,” he said.
Community Support and Ongoing Investigation
Police have not confirmed whether any new evidence was found during the latest search but emphasized their continued commitment to solving the case.
Anyone with information that could help investigators locate Lydia Perkins is urged to contact the Lexington Police Department at (859) 258-3600. Anonymous tips can also be submitted to Bluegrass Crime Stoppers at (859) 253-2020 or online at bluegrasscrimestoppers.com.
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