LATEST: Appeal for help in locating missing girl, 17, stood down as gardai issue update

A garda appeal for assistance in locating a teenage girl who was reported missing last weekend has been stood down, it has been confirmed.

Melissa McDonnell, 17, from Ballinagh, County Cavan was reported missing after she failed to return home after travelling to Longford town last Saturday.

An urgent appeal was issued by gardai on Tuesday and in an update, issued this Friday, they confirmed there has been a positive development in the case.

"Melissa McDonnell, 17, who was reported from Ballinagh, County Cavan since Saturday, January 11 2025, has been found safe and well," said a spokesperson.

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While no further information has been disclosed publicly, gardai have thanked members of the public and the media for their assistance with the appeal.