Body Of Mission Viejo Softball Player Found In Pinecrest Park

MISSION VIEJO, CA — The body of a 13-year-old softball player from Mission Viejo was found in a local park, not far from her home, according to Orange County Sheriff's Department. Emma Pangelinan was last seen around 3:30 p.m. Sunday in the area of Florence Joyner Park in Mission Viejo, near Alicia Parkway and Olympiad.

As of Monday at 5 p.m. the Orange County Sheriff's Department learned that the body that was discovered at the Pinecrest Park, not far from where Emma went missing was in fact the missing Mission Viejo girl. The body was discovered by a citizen at noon. As of this report, it is not clear if the body discovered was Emma Pangelinan.

"We can now confirm that the body discovered today in the heavy brush area surrounding Pinecrest Park in Mission Viejo is missing juvenile Emma Pangelinan," an OCSD spokesperson said. "At this time the death does not appear suspicious. A full investigation and autopsy will be conducted by the OC Coroner’s Office. We would like to extend our deepest condolences to the Pangelinan family and friends."

"Emma Pangelinan is on our team and she is Family," Emma's softball club reported over Facebook.

This is a developing story. More information will be posted as it is released.

Photo courtesy of Pangelinan family