Search continues for 10-year-old girl missing from West Philadelphia

Philadelphia Search continues for 10-year-old girl missing from West Philadelphia Philadelphia police continue searching for 10-year-old Jalayshia Alford, who disappeared Oct. 26 in West Philadelphia. By Cherise Lynch • Published November 4, 2026 • Updated on November 5, 2026 at 12:35 pm Philadelphia police are continuing their search for a 10-year-old girl who has been missing for more than a week. Jalayshia “Malayshia” Alford was last seen around 7:30 a.m. on Oct. 26 along the 500 block of North Simpson Street in West Philadelphia. Stream Philadelphia News for free, 24/7, wherever you are with NBC10. WATCH HERE She was last seen wearing a blue school uniform that included a blue shirt, skirt, pullover and stockings. She was also wearing either Crocs or black sneakers and wears glasses. Investigators said Jalayshia may be at risk of harm or injury. "She was so sweet and kind. She didn't do nothing to anybody," her former teacher Tashonna Moore said. "I literally cried all day. I was not able to focus.” A heavy police presence was searching for a missing 10-year-old girl who has been missing for a week. NBC10's Shaira Arias has the story. On Wednesday night, police focused their efforts on a field in West Philadelphia, but the body of an animal was found. NBC10 NBC10 In an update on Thursday, Camden County Prosecutor's Office is assisting in the Philadelphia Police Department and the FBI in the investigation. Local Breaking news and the stories that matter to your neighborhood. weather forecast 10 hours ago More rain, few Friday storms Delaware County 7 hours ago Police ID suspect wanted for murder of 18-year-old Penn Wood High School student Neighbors told NBC10 that Alford was a foster child living on the block. They said police have been questioning residents, reviewing home surveillance video and using search dogs at the home where she was believed to be living. Rhonda Wilson, a block captain in the neighborhood, said residents were shocked to learn a child from their community was missing. "Just bring her home. A little girl just out there without her mom, without her family, loved ones. That's sad," Wilson said. Police are urging anyone who has seen Jalayshia or knows where she may be to contact investigators at 215-686-3183 or 215-686-3184. This article tagged under: Philadelphia