Jessica Benítez found safe in Buenos Aires after three‑day search

Jessica Benítez Barbudes, an 18‑year‑old student, was reported missing on Tuesday after leaving her home in the Belgrano neighbourhood of Buenos Aires to attend school. Her family, friends, school staff and police launched an intensive search, with the City Police and the National Criminal and Corrections Prosecutor’s Office coordinating efforts.

Late on Friday, police located Jessica alive in the Caballito district as she was on her way to a friend’s house. Authorities confirmed she was in good health, stating she "apareció sana y salva" after "arduas tareas de investigación" by the police and prosecutors.

The teenager has a diagnosed borderline personality disorder and a previous suicide attempt; she was scheduled for a psychiatric appointment on 22 July. Her safe recovery brought relief to her family and the local community.