Hailey
The Emporia community is coming together as police continue their urgent search for Rebecca Rauber, a 28-year-old school teacher who went missing late Friday night.
Since the moment her disappearance was reported, officers have worked nonstop, using every possible resource. Now, police say community help is critical to finding Rebecca and bringing her home safely.
Who Is Rebecca Rauber?
Rebecca Rauber is a 28-year-old teacher from Emporia, known to friends and family as caring and responsible. Her sudden disappearance has raised serious concern, especially due to the cold weather and the fact that she was last seen without essential belongings.
Rebecca Rauber’s Description
- Age: 28
- Height: Approx. 5’8”
- Weight: Around 160 lbs
- Hair: Long brown hair with blonde highlights
- Eyes: Brown
- Last seen wearing: Possibly a Wichita State University sweatshirt and/or a flannel shirt
Timeline of Events Leading to the Search
Last Known Sighting
Rebecca was last seen leaving Town Royal around 11:30 p.m. on Friday night. Surveillance footage later showed her walking alone westbound on West 5th Avenue.
At approximately 11:37 p.m., video from a nearby residence captured Rebecca walking north on Neosho Street from West 5th Avenue.
Missing Person Report Filed
The Emporia Police Department (EPD) received a missing person report at 1:13 a.m. Saturday. Due to the serious circumstances, officers began searching immediately.
Police were especially concerned because Rebecca reportedly left without her purse, phone, or jacket, despite cold weather conditions.
Police Investigation and Search Efforts
Surveillance Review
Officers quickly reviewed business and residential surveillance cameras in the area. While multiple videos were checked, Rebecca did not appear to cross 6th Avenue at Neosho Street, which has helped narrow the search area.
K9 Units Deployed
- A search dog was initially used but did not locate any leads
- A bloodhound K9 has since been brought in to assist
- Officers continue to search on foot and by vehicle
Police have asked residents to stay off the streets in the active search area so trained teams can work without disruption.
How the Community Can Help Right Now
Police say public assistance could make a huge difference.
Areas Residents Should Check
If you live or work:
- Within 3–4 blocks of West 5th Avenue and Neosho Street
- Along Neosho Street from West 5th Avenue to West 15th Avenue
You are urged to review any home or business security footage recorded between 11:30 p.m. Friday, January 22, and the early morning hours after.
Also, please check yards, alleys, and nearby spaces for anything unusual that could help investigators.
Key Details at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Missing Person | Rebecca Rauber |
| Age | 28 years old |
| Last Seen | 11:37 p.m., Jan 22 |
| Location | Neosho St. & W 5th Ave |
| Items Missing | Phone, purse, jacket |
| Contact Police | 620-341-3350 |
How to Share Information Safely
Anyone with information is urged to act quickly.
- Emporia Police Department: 620-341-3350
- Lyon County Crime Stoppers: 620-342-2273
- Anonymous tips: Via P3 Tips online
Police stress that no detail is too small and encourage anyone who saw or heard something unusual to come forward.
The search for Rebecca Rauber remains active, and police are using every available tool to locate her. However, time is critical, and community support can play a powerful role.
By checking surveillance footage, staying alert, and sharing information quickly, residents can help bring answers to Rebecca’s family and loved ones. Emporia police continue to urge everyone to remain vigilant and compassionate as the search moves forward.