Body of Missing 11-Year-Old Texas Girl Found in River

Heartbreaking news emerges as authorities confirm the discovery of 11-year-old Audrii Cunningham’s body in the Trinity River, Texas.

The search for 11-year-old Audrii Cunningham, who disappeared while on her way to school in Polk County, Texas, has ended in tragedy as authorities announced the discovery of her body in the Trinity River.

Audrii Cunningham was last seen leaving her home on Thursday morning to catch a school bus, but she never arrived at school. The devastating news was confirmed by Polk County District Attorney Shelly Sitton, who stated that Don Steven McDougal, 42, in custody for an unrelated matter, will be charged with capital murder in connection with Audrii’s death.

Sheriff Byron Lyons revealed that information provided by the suspect, along with cellphone data and social media imagery from citizens, led authorities to Audrii’s body off Highway 59 in the county. The river’s water level was lowered by a local water authority to aid divers in their search.

Audrii’s disappearance sparked an Amber Alert, describing her as a 4-foot-1 child with blonde hair and blue eyes, last seen wearing black pants, a black hoodie, and black tennis shoes.

McDougal, considered a family friend who occasionally assisted Audrii with transportation to school, was apprehended on suspicion of aggravated assault in an unrelated incident. A small children’s backpack was discovered near the Lake Livingston Dam, close to the Cunningham family home, adding further depth to the investigation.

As the community mourns the loss of Audrii Cunningham, authorities are committed to pursuing justice for her tragic death, ensuring that those responsible are held accountable for their actions.