Investigators Continue Search for Iowa Teen Missing Since 2016

Jade Colvin was reported missing on June 10, 2016, after leaving a shelter for youth in Des Moines, Iowa. She was 14 years old at the time. The case remained unresolved for several years. A deputy U.S. Marshal, a detective, and a special agent joined forces to investigate the case as part of the U.S. Marshals Service's Operation Homecoming, a statewide effort to locate missing children.

Investigators determined that Jade Colvin had a challenging upbringing, including a dysfunctional family situation influenced by her parents' substance abuse issues. Her mother, LaDawn Colvin, lost custody in September 2015, leading to Jade's placement in foster care.

Jade ran away multiple times from foster placements and shelters. Jade's father, Kevin, had lost contact with her. LaDawn Colvin died three years after Jade went missing, in a period when family and friends continued searching for her. A special agent stated that Jade grew up in a difficult environment.

The team started by reviewing Jade's background, friends, family, and social media activity. S. Marshal said the process begins with understanding the person's history. A detective noted that individuals who go missing often do not want to be found, making tracking difficult.

They said she accepted her situation without negativity. A friend’s mother added that LaDawn Colvin was unreliable but cared for Jade, though unable to provide stability.

Family members offered support and noted Jade's ability to change her appearance to avoid detection. Friends and family posted messages on social media, including birthday wishes and pleas for contact, but received no responses. LaDawn Colvin posted messages expressing her longing for Jade's return, such as one in September 2018 stating it was hurting the family and urging Jade to call.

After LaDawn's death, Jade did not attend the funeral, which raised further concerns. The Iowa Department of Human Services lost track of Jade after her 2016 departure from the shelter. Investigators received assistance from state and national organizations that shared missing persons posters on social media, which a detective described as significant for generating tips.