The family of Esmeralda “Kit” Mora continues to hold out hope for their loved one, who has been missing for nearly four years. The 16-year-old disappeared from Omak, Washington, on April 15, 2022. In a poignant message shared this week, Kit’s family implored them to reach out if they are safe. “We miss you so much and if you are out there, please know that we are here,” they expressed in a heartfelt video accompanied by a collection of cherished family photographs.
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Before their disappearance, Kit had been residing with their grandparents in Yakima. However, in the summer of 2021, the teenager moved to Omak to be with their mother and siblings. According to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC), Kit was initially in regular contact with family and friends back in Yakima. Yet, that communication ceased by the winter of 2021, raising concerns among those closest to them.
Charlotte Reckard, Kit’s sibling, recalls their cheerful and carefree nature. “You could never be mad at Kit; they’re very smiley, very happy,” said Charlotte. A lover of art, literature, and particularly fond of dragons, Kit was known to find joy in creative pursuits. Charlotte highlighted how Kit had plans to return to Yakima for the new school year, but ultimately made the decision to stay in Omak, where they began to face personal challenges.
These challenges were relayed to Amythist McCart, Kit’s best friend, who received distressing messages detailing Kit’s struggles in managing school and responsibilities related to their younger siblings. “That was the first and only time they told me, you know, something’s wrong here,” Amythist recounted. Alarmed by the lack of communication following these exchanges, Charlotte and other family members requested a wellness check from the Omak Police in November 2021. Initially, they were informed that Kit was in good health.
The situation took a more alarming turn in September 2022 when Amythist, growing increasingly concerned for her friend, reached out to the police again for a wellness check. It was then that the devastating news was revealed—Kit had been missing since April. “The blood rushed to my face. I started crying instantly,” Amythist said, expressing her shock and heartbreak upon learning of Kit’s status.
According to law enforcement, the circumstances surrounding Kit’s disappearance remain murky. In an update issued in 2024, the Omak Police Department indicated they were partnering with the Office of the Attorney General Murdered and Missing Indigenous Women’s and People Cold Case Unit to assist in investigating Kit’s case. “Like many in our community, we are deeply committed to finding answers to what happened to Kit Mora,” the department stated, underlining their dedication to resolving the mystery.
As the family marked the grim milestone of 1,588 days without hearing from Kit, the emotions ran high. In their recent video appeal, they shared powerful sentiments about their longing for Kit’s return. “It’s been far too long, and we will keep waiting, keep looking for you no matter how long it takes,” they affirmed, assuring Kit that they are loved and missed deeply.
As of early April 2023, Kit remains missing, described in the official bulletin from the Omak Police Department as being 5’ 6” tall, weighing approximately 190 pounds, and identifying as non-binary with brown eyes and black hair. The NCMEC has circulated a new image depicting how Kit might appear as a 20-year-old, aiming to raise awareness and spur new leads in the case.
The family and authorities are appealing for information regarding Kit’s whereabouts. Those who may have any details are urged to contact the Omak Police Department at 509-826-0383 or reach out to the NCMEC at 1-800-843-5678. As the search for Esmeralda “Kit” Mora continues, their loved ones remain steadfast in their commitment to finding answers.