Virginia teen located after days missing with convicted felon: Police

FREDERICKSBURG, Va. - A Fredericksburg teen was located on Friday after three days missing, police said. The man she was with—a convicted felon previously charged with a child sex crime—was arrested.

Police in Fredericksburg are searching for a missing 17-year-old girl who they say may be traveling with a convicted felon who's previously been charged with a child sex crime.

What we know:

Police located Amber Van Zandt, 17, in Woodbridge, Virginia, Friday evening, after three days missing. Van Zandt was reported missing on May 19 around 1 p.m., according to the Fredericksburg Police Department. 

According to officials, Van Zandt was traveling with Ronnie Reel, 39. 

The backstory:

Reel is a convicted felon. In 2022, Reel pleaded guilty to sexually abusing an 11-year-old boy in Fairfax County. But after attorneys missed a deadline to submit evidence in the case, Reel agreed to a plea deal and was let out on time served.

Timeline:

While police said the 17-year-old left voluntarily, they were still concerned for her safety due to her age. Police issued a warrant for Reel's arrest on charges of contributing to the delinquency of a minor.

Police found Van Zandt and Reel in Woodbridge shortly after 7 p.m. on Friday. While officers worked to reunite the girl with her family, police arrested Reel.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Virginia man who confessed to sexually abusing 11-year-old offered plea deal in Fairfax Co.

What they're saying:

The Fredericksburg Police Department thanked officers and the public for help with the investigation.

"We extend our sincere gratitude to the public for the numerous tips provided. Each tip played a crucial role in assisting authorities with the investigation," the Fredericksburg Police Department said in a statement. "We also thank the Prince William County Police Department for their invaluable support in locating both Autumn and Reel."

Missing PersonsFredericksburg