Zimmerman, MN – The Sherburne County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that 7-year-old Brynlee, who was reported missing Wednesday afternoon, was found safe early Thursday morning. An AMBER Alert was issued after Brynlee disappeared around 4 p.m. on January 21, shortly after getting off her school bus at a stop in the 26000 block of 13th Street West in Zimmerman.

Family members reported seeing Brynlee get into a black car, possibly a 2011-2015 Chevy Cruze, which prompted a widespread search. Authorities urged nearby residents to check their properties, including yards, garages, and outbuildings, and to review doorbell or security camera footage. The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) noted that it was unclear whether the black sedan was connected to the case, though it was later confirmed that Brynlee was found safe.

A State Patrol helicopter assisted with the search, which covered the Zimmerman area. Around 11:45 p.m., an AMBER Alert was sent to mobile devices. The search continued throughout the night, with volunteers and law enforcement working tirelessly to locate Brynlee.

In a heartening update, authorities confirmed around 1 a.m. Thursday that Brynlee had been located and was safe. She was found in the Albert Lea area, and a suspect has been taken into custody. The exact details of the circumstances surrounding her abduction have not yet been disclosed.

The community can breathe a sigh of relief knowing that Brynlee is safe, and our thoughts are with her and her family as they process this traumatic experience. The swift response and collective effort of law enforcement, volunteers, and the public played a vital role in bringing Brynlee home.