$60,000 reward offered in search for missing East Texas 10-year-old
BULLARD, Texas - A $60,000 reward is now being offered for information that will help police find a missing East Texas 10-year-old girl.
The FBI is organizing a large group search for Kayla Gomez-Orozco after she disappeared Tuesday night from her family church during a prayer service in the Cherokee County town of Bullard, just south of Tyler. An Amber Alert was issued for her Wednesday morning.
READ MORE: Amber Alert continues for missing East Texas 10-year-old girl
With so many people asking how they can help, the FBI organized a Saturday morning church. Those who want to help cannot just show up. Volunteers must pre-register online, be at least 16 years old and have a photo ID.
Officials say a private $40,000 donation helped the Cherokee County Crime Stoppers push forward with a $60,000 reward. Investigators are hoping the money will entice someone to come forward with the information they need to find Kayla.
With help from local authorities, FBI Agent Tom Class says they continue to follow up on leads coming in from the community but have not been able to turn up anything new. A parade that was already scheduled for Saturday was canceled so police can focus all of their efforts on the search for Kayla.
The small East Texas town has rallied in support of the missing girl’s family. Pink bows, Kayla’s favorite color, and ribbons can be seen around outside shops and restaurants in the area. Her fellow classmates at Jack Elementary School in Tyler also wore pink shirts
“It's very nurturing, definitely. The support makes us feel a little bit better,” said Kenneth Gomez, Kayla’s brother. “But at the same time, it makes us realize that this is really happening. And it's not just a nightmare, it's reality.”
Tyler ISD school officials say additional counselors have been brought in to help students and staff. The superintendent is also encouraging parents to talk to their kids at home.
Check in for the Saturday search will be between 7-8 a.m. at Bullard High School. The FBI is also asking volunteers not bring any animals, weapons or ATVs. A link to the registration can be found here.