Philadelphia mom vanishes with two children amid custody dispute

Philadelphia Mom Vanishes With Two Children Amid Custody Dispute

by
January 28, 2025
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PHILADELPHIA — Authorities are seeking help in locating two young siblings, Xela Santiago, 7, and Xealwyse Santiago, 4, who were last seen in the early hours of Friday, January 24, 2025. The children were reportedly in the company of their mother, Althea Underwood, who is in violation of a custody order, according to the Philadelphia Police Department.

The siblings were last observed around midnight on the 200 block of Adrian Way. Police described Xela as 3’11” tall, weighing 50 pounds, with brown eyes and black hair. She may have been wearing a gold jacket. Xealwyse is 3’0” tall, weighs 45 pounds, and also has brown eyes and black hair. No details about his clothing were available.

Authorities stated that Underwood, 33, has a history of visiting the 30th Street Station and may have taken the children there. No further details about her appearance or means of travel have been disclosed.

Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Xela, Xealwyse, or Althea Underwood is urged to contact Northeast Detectives at 215-686-3153.

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton is the Editor and Publisher of Shore News Network, an independent digital news organization covering New Jersey, national politics, public policy, public safety, and community affairs. With years of experience reporting on local government, elections, law enforcement, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey, Stilton has built a reputation for delivering timely news, in-depth reporting, and accountability journalism.

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