Police Update: Madeline Soto Disappearance, Investigators 'Confident' She's Deceased

Florida officials confirm missing Kissimmee girl, Madeline Soto, likely dead. Boyfriend arrested on child pornography charges. Police seek tips on case.

The Orange County Sheriff's Office officials in Florida made a heartbreaking announcement on Friday regarding the disappearance of 13-year-old Madeline Soto from Kissimmee. It was revealed that Madeline is likely no longer alive.

Madeline, a student at Hunter's Creek Middle School in Orlando, went missing after her mother's boyfriend, Stephan Sterns, supposedly dropped her off at school on Monday morning. However, Madeline never made it to school, and Sterns was later arrested on unrelated child pornography charges after authorities found incriminating evidence on his phone.

Sheriff John Mina stated on Friday that detectives met with Madeline's mother to deliver the devastating news that they believe Madeline is deceased, even though her body has not been found. The Orange County Sheriff's Office, along with other local law enforcement agencies, has been actively searching for Madeline and piecing together a timeline of events leading up to her presumed death.

The day before she disappeared, Madeline celebrated her 13th birthday with her family. She appeared happy and excited, showing off her gifts and expressing joy. However, the following day, Sterns claimed to have dropped her off a few blocks from school, but surveillance footage suggests otherwise.

Authorities now believe that Madeline was already deceased when Sterns moved her body early Monday morning. Evidence found in a dumpster near the apartment complex where Sterns lived, including Madeline's backpack and a school-issued laptop, further supports this theory.

As the investigation continues, the Kissimmee Police Department will take over as the lead agency. Chief Betty Holland urged anyone who may have seen Sterns driving a 2010 Lincoln MKC with the license plate "IYLL82" on Monday afternoon to come forward.

Sterns remains in custody, with disturbing images found on his phone indicating possible illicit activities at the family home. He has been transferred to the Osceola County jail as the case progresses.

The community is urged to provide any information that may help bring closure to this tragic situation. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story and subscribe to the 'Crime Stories with Nancy Grace' podcast for the latest true crime news. Join Nancy Grace in her efforts to protect children and promote justice.

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