The disappearance of Arizona teenager Alissa Turney in 2001 remains unsolved in 2026. Authorities have not confirmed what happened to her. Meanwhile, her family continues to search for answers and justice.
Alissa Turney vanished on the final day of her junior year at age 17. She left Paradise Valley High School in Phoenix after telling a friend that her stepfather would pick her up early. She never returned home after that day.
Her stepfather, Michael Turney, told police he picked her up for lunch. He said they argued during the outing, and then he dropped her off at home. Shortly after, he reported her missing and suggested she had run away.
Police opened a missing persons investigation, but early efforts produced limited results. Investigators did not find strong physical evidence at the scene. Alissa left behind important belongings, including her phone, car, and personal items.
In 2008, investigators reopened the case. They interviewed friends, relatives, and people connected to the family. Several individuals described Michael Turney as controlling and strict toward Alissa.
Over time, investigators identified Michael Turney as a suspect. However, the case also included false leads, including a prison confession that did not match known facts. That claim did not help the investigation.
Police later searched Michael Turney’s property in 2008. They did not locate Alissa, but they found illegal weapons and explosives. Authorities charged him separately for those offenses.
Michael Turney pleaded guilty to federal weapons charges and served prison time. Even after his release, investigators continued reviewing his possible involvement in Alissa’s disappearance.
In 2020, authorities arrested Michael Turney and charged him with second-degree murder. Prosecutors argued that witness accounts and evidence supported their case. However, they still had no body or confirmed remains.
The trial took place in 2023. The defense argued that prosecutors lacked physical evidence linking him to a crime. The court agreed and acquitted Michael Turney of all charges.
After the ruling, Michael Turney denied any involvement in his stepdaughter’s disappearance. He stated that he does not know what happened to Alissa.
Alissa’s sister, Sarah Turney, continued to push for public attention on the case. She used media platforms and advocacy campaigns to keep the investigation in the public eye.
As of 2026, investigators have still not located Alissa Turney. Her case remains open and unresolved. Her family continues to believe she did not leave voluntarily.
