Sex crimes division investigating Shaler teen's disappearance

SHALER, Pa. — The search for a missing Shaler Township teenager ended early Thursday morning when she was found safely.

Ryann Tillman, 15, had not been seen since May 7 when she didn't attend school or return home, her father said.

Jonathan Tillman told officials that his family members and Ryann's friends were in touch with her for a while, but did not see or hear from her since she called her best friend over the weekend.

Early Thursday Ryann Tillman was admitted to UPMC Mercy Hospital and considered "high trauma."

The details of where the girl was found have not yet been released.

Ryann Tillman's mother said she saw her daughter with two men on Wood Street downtown, but they took off running.

Hours later police said Ryann Tillman was found and in the hospital. Officials said her blonde hair had been dyed black.

“We headed over there right away and I don’t really know what transpired there. We hung out in that area for a long time and got the call she was at Mercy,” Jonathan Tillman said.

Tillman said he is concerned and worried about what happened during her 10-day disappearance.

“I’m happy, relieved and can’t thank people enough for reaching out to help,” Jonathan Tillman said.

Channel 11 News was there as police searched outside of a Domino's Pizza restaurant at the corner of 6^th and Wood streets in downtown Pittsburgh Wednesday night.

Officials said the Pittsburgh sex crimes division is investigating the case. Police have not released any other information about their investigation.

Despite the lack of details, Tillman's family is relieved she's been found.

“There have been a lot of sleepless nights. She was all I could think about night and day,” Tillman’s stepfather, Bill Pratt, said.

“I’m so grateful, but if it doesn’t seem like I’m smiling it’s because I’m exhausted,” Tillman’s grandfather, John Tillman, said. “It’s been a long week, but trust me, we’re all smiling on the inside.”

WPXI