It’s been years since Karlie Lain Guse vanished without a trace, yet her name continues to haunt those who have followed her story. What began as a typical autumn morning in October 2018 quickly turned into a nightmare that has never ended for her family, friends, and community.
At just 16 years old, Karlie disappeared from her home in Chalfant Valley, California. Despite extensive searches and ongoing investigations, no confirmed sighting or contact has ever been made since that morning. The FBI continues to offer a $5,000 reward for any information that could lead to her location.
Her story remains one of the most puzzling and heartbreaking missing person cases in California’s history.
Karlie Guse’s Biography
| Full Name | Karlie Lain Guse |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | May 13, 2002 |
| Age at Disappearance | 16 years old |
| Hometown | Chalfant Valley, Mono County, California |
| Height | 5’7” |
| Weight | 110 pounds |
| Hair Color | Dark Blonde |
| Eye Color | Blue |
| Distinguishing Features | Left nostril pierced |
| Clothing Last Seen Wearing | White T-shirt, gray sweatpants or jeans, Vans shoes |
| Missing Since | October 13, 2018 |
| Reward | Up to $5,000 offered by the FBI |
Who Is Karlie Guse?
Karlie was a bright, kind-hearted teenager known for her gentle spirit and fun personality. Born on May 13, 2002, she grew up surrounded by the quiet desert landscape of Mono County, California. Her family described her as artistic, thoughtful, and full of dreams for the future.
In October 2018, she was living with her father, stepmother, and siblings in the White Mountain Estates area of Chalfant Valley, just north of Bishop. By all accounts, she was a typical 16-year-old — balancing school, friendships, and the early challenges of growing up.
But everything changed on the morning of October 13, 2018.
The Morning She Went Missing
According to official reports, Karlie was last seen by her family in the early pre-dawn hours of October 13, 2018. She appeared restless and anxious that night, and at some point during the early morning, she left the house quietly, leaving all her belongings behind — including her cell phone, which remains one of the most haunting clues in the case.
A witness reported seeing a young woman matching Karlie’s description walking along Highway 6, approximately 30 yards east of the road and 100 yards south of Sierra View Road, around sunrise. She appeared disoriented, possibly barefoot, and wearing a white T-shirt and gray sweatpants or jeans.
That was the last confirmed sighting of Karlie Guse.
The Search Efforts
The Mono County Sheriff’s Office, in collaboration with the FBI, launched an extensive search shortly after Karlie was reported missing. Ground teams, helicopters, dogs, and volunteers combed through the rugged desert terrain surrounding Chalfant Valley, but no trace of her was ever found.
Authorities expanded the search beyond Mono County, investigating possible leads in nearby states. Despite countless interviews, tips, and online awareness campaigns, the trail went cold.
As of 2025, no conclusive evidence has surfaced to explain what happened to Karlie that morning.
Family’s Plea and Community Support
Karlie’s disappearance shattered her family’s world. Her parents have spent years pleading for information, keeping her story alive through media interviews, social media, and missing person organizations.
The community of Bishop and Mono County continues to hold hope that one day, Karlie will be found. Posters bearing her picture — her warm smile and bright blue eyes — can still be found throughout the region. Vigils have been held to honor her and to remind the world that she is not forgotten.
Theories and Speculation
Over the years, various theories have circulated regarding Karlie’s disappearance. Some believe she may have become disoriented and lost in the desert; others think she may have been picked up by someone on the highway.
Despite speculation, law enforcement has never confirmed any evidence pointing to foul play or voluntary disappearance. The case remains open, and investigators continue to pursue new leads whenever possible.
The FBI’s ongoing involvement and the continued public attention serve as reminders that hope remains — even after years without answers.
FBI Reward and How to Help
The FBI is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for any information that could lead to Karlie’s location or recovery.
Anyone with information, no matter how small, is urged to contact:
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FBI Tip Line: 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324)
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Mono County Sheriff’s Office: (760) 932-7549
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Or submit a tip online at tips.fbi.gov
Every lead matters — and one call could make all the difference in bringing Karlie home.
Recent Updates (as of 2025)
While there have been no major breakthroughs, law enforcement continues to follow up on possible leads. In recent years, renewed media attention and social media awareness have brought Karlie’s story to a new generation, with advocates continuing to share her photo and story online.
Supporters often use hashtags like #BringKarlieHome and #FindKarlieGuse to raise awareness, keeping her case visible and encouraging anyone with information to come forward.
FAQs About Karlie Guse’s Case
Q1: When did Karlie Guse go missing?
A1: Karlie was reported missing on the morning of October 13, 2018, from Chalfant Valley, California.
Q2: How old was Karlie when she disappeared?
A2: She was 16 years old at the time of her disappearance.
Q3: Has Karlie Guse ever been found?
A3: As of 2025, Karlie has not been located, and the case remains open with ongoing investigation by the FBI and Mono County Sheriff’s Office.
Q4: What should I do if I have information about Karlie’s case?
A4: Anyone with information should contact the FBI or the Mono County Sheriff’s Office immediately. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through tips.fbi.gov.
Conclusion: Hope Never Fades
The disappearance of Karlie Lain Guse is a tragedy that continues to weigh heavily on the hearts of many. Her story is a reminder of the importance of community, awareness, and persistence in the search for missing persons.
Though the years have passed, the mission remains the same — to find Karlie and bring her home. The love and dedication of her family, along with the tireless work of investigators and supporters, ensure that her light continues to shine.
If you have any information that could help, please come forward. Even the smallest detail could bring long-awaited answers and hope to those who have been waiting since that fateful morning in 2018.
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