Three Young Girls Identified After Tragic Drowning Incident in Missouri River Near Dodge Park; 13-Year-Old Survivor Recounts Harrowing Moments as Community Mourns and Search for Final Victim Continues
DODGE PARK, MO (April 17, 2025) – In a heartbreaking turn of events, local authorities have confirmed the identities of three young girls who went missing in the Missouri River near Dodge Park earlier this week. The incident, which has shaken the tight-knit community of Platte County, unfolded late Sunday afternoon when a group of four teenage girls ventured near the water for what was intended to be a fun day out. Tragically, only one of them — a 13-year-old girl — managed to escape the current and make it back to shore alive.
Tragedy Strikes Near the Water’s Edge
According to Platte County Sheriff Mark Owen, the girls were seen playing along the riverbank when they either fell in or entered the water voluntarily, unaware of the river’s strong undertow and sudden drop-offs. Witnesses in the area reported hearing screams and rushed to assist, but the swift current had already pulled three of the girls under.
“Despite immediate efforts by emergency responders and community members, the force of the Missouri River proved overwhelming,” Sheriff Owen stated in a press conference held Monday morning. “This is a tragedy that has left us all deeply shaken.”
Victims Identified
The three girls who went missing have been identified as:
- Alyssa Martinez, 14, of Kansas City
- Neveah Thompson, 13, of Riverside
- Jade Walker, 12, of Parkville
Their families have been notified, and grief counselors have been made available through local schools and community support organizations.
All three girls were described as bright, loving, and full of promise. Alyssa had dreams of becoming a veterinarian and was known for her compassion toward animals. Neveah, a gifted soccer player, was a popular figure at her middle school, while Jade, the youngest of the group, was an aspiring artist who loved to draw and paint.
The Survivor’s Account
The lone survivor, whose name is being withheld due to her age, managed to pull herself out of the water and seek help from nearby parkgoers. Still in shock and soaked to the bone, she recounted how a moment of innocent play quickly turned into a nightmare.
“She said they were laughing and splashing near the water’s edge,” one first responder shared. “But within seconds, the current caught one of them. The others tried to help, but the river was too strong.”
The girl is now recovering at home with her family and is receiving trauma counseling.
Search and Recovery Efforts
As of Thursday morning, rescue and recovery teams have located the bodies of two of the missing girls — believed to be Alyssa Martinez and Neveah Thompson — downstream, several miles from the original site near Dodge Park. The third girl, Jade Walker, remains missing as of this report, but authorities continue their search with boats, sonar, and drone surveillance.
Crews from multiple jurisdictions, including the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Water Division and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, are working in tandem, navigating the challenging river conditions. “The water levels are high and the current is swift, but we are committed to bringing these girls home to their families,” said Major Daniel Hawthorne of the State Water Patrol.
Community Grieves
The community has responded with an outpouring of love and support. A candlelight vigil is scheduled for Friday evening at Park Hill Middle School, where two of the girls attended classes. Teachers and classmates have already begun creating a memorial wall filled with photos, notes, and flowers.
“This is a loss we can hardly comprehend,” said school counselor Janine Robeson. “Our hearts go out to the families, and we are doing everything we can to support our students.”
Calls for Safety Awareness
In light of this tragedy, officials are urging families and young people to exercise extreme caution near rivers, especially during spring when waters tend to rise and currents become more unpredictable.
“Rivers are dangerous even when they look calm,” Sheriff Owen warned. “We urge parents to talk with their kids about the risks, and we encourage everyone to stay away from unguarded waterways, especially in high-flow conditions.”
Dodge Park, a popular spot for fishing, picnicking, and river views, will remain closed through the weekend as recovery efforts continue.
If you or someone you know is struggling with grief related to this tragedy, local support services are available through the Platte County Mental Health Center. A 24-hour hotline has also been established at (816) 555-CARE.