Missing Wyckoff Teens Planned To Run Away, Police Say

WYCKOFF, NJ — Two 13-year-old girls planned to run away from their homes and were found early Thursday morning, police said.

Daniella Fernino and Lia Callahan were last seen walking off the school's campus at 3:15 p.m., the school previously said.

Police received a report they were missing at 4:41 p.m. and they learned that the girls planned to run away, said Wyckoff police Chief David Murphy.

Police contacted the Bergen County Prosecutor's Office Special Victims Unit and the agencies worked through the night pursuing leads and interviewing people, Murphy said.

Police found the girls at 3:50 a.m. "safe and unharmed" and turned over to their parents, the chief said.

The school posted a statement on its Facebook page after the girls were found:

"We are happy to announce that our two formerly missing students have been found. They are safe and with family. We would like to remind everyone that both girls are minors. As such, we ask for privacy for the girls and their families.

We are thankful to the Wyckoff Police Department for their professional and thorough handling of this challenging situation.

We are thankful to the entire EC family and the thousands of friends, family, and concerned citizens who prayed for the safety and well being of the girls and who helped us spread the news alert. We are grateful for your concern and prayers.

Most of all, we are thankful to Almighty God for a safe outcome. We know that prayers were answered today and we thank our all-powerful God for his protection in this challenging time."

Related: Wyckoff Students Reported Missing Have Been Found, Police Say

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Photos: Lia Callahan and Daniella Fernino (Wyckoff Police Department/background image via Shutterstock)