Authorities Continue Search for Morgan Geyser

 

Payton Leutner Safe as Authorities Continue Search for Morgan Geyser

Milwaukee, WI – The family of Payton Leutner, who survived the notorious 2014 Slender Man attack, has confirmed that she and her loved ones are safe as authorities continue the search for Morgan Geyser, who recently went missing from her group home.

Leutner was only 12 years old when Geyser, along with Anissa Weier, lured her from a sleepover to a nearby wooded park in Waukesha and stabbed her 19 times. Despite the severity of her injuries, Payton survived and has since shared her experience publicly to help others understand the dangers and aftermath of such violent incidents.

Family Statement Confirms Safety

In an official statement released through a spokesperson, the Leutner family emphasized that both Payton and her family are safe and cooperating fully with law enforcement.

"Payton Leutner and her family are aware of the most recent situation regarding Morgan Geyser. Payton and her family are safe and are working closely with local law enforcement to ensure their continued safety.

The family would like to thank all law enforcement entities involved in the efforts to apprehend Morgan. The Leutner family also wish to thank the outpouring of support from family, friends, and well-wishers who have contacted them during this difficult time."

This reassurance comes amid heightened concern following reports that Geyser removed her monitoring device and left her supervised living facility, sparking a statewide search.

The Search for Morgan Geyser

The Madison Police Department, along with other local authorities, is actively searching for Geyser. She was last seen around 8 p.m. on November 22 near Kroncke Drive. Law enforcement officials urge anyone who may encounter Geyser to call 911 immediately.

Geyser’s disappearance has renewed public attention to her conditional release from the Winnebago Mental Health Institute in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. The release was initially approved in January but faced delays due to concerns about the location of her group home.

Conditional Release Concerns

In April, Geyser’s proposed placement in a group home just eight miles from Leutner's residence caused significant distress for Payton and her family. According to Stacy Leutner, Payton's mother, the news was alarming because the proximity posed potential risks.

After considering multiple alternatives, authorities placed Geyser in a secure, undisclosed group home in the fall. The location was kept confidential to ensure the safety of both the public and the Leutner family.

Payton Leutner Speaks Out

Payton Leutner has remained remarkably resilient in the years following the attack. In a 2019 interview with ABC's "20/20", she discussed both the trauma she endured and her perspective on the eventual release of her attackers.

"If they ever come near me, they're going right back in," Leutner said, referring to Geyser and Weier.

Despite the trauma, Leutner also expressed a surprising perspective of personal growth and forgiveness:

"I would likely thank Geyser if I had a chance to speak to her. Without the whole situation, I wouldn't be who I am."

At the time of the interview, Leutner was planning to pursue a career in the medical field, highlighting her determination to move forward and build a meaningful life after her experience.

Community Support and Awareness

The 2014 Slender Man attack remains one of the most widely reported criminal cases in Wisconsin. The case not only shocked the nation but also highlighted the dangers of internet-influenced crime among minors.

Throughout the ongoing developments, the Leutner family has received widespread support from law enforcement, friends, and the community. This support has been crucial in helping Payton and her family feel secure while authorities work to locate Geyser.

The Legacy of the Slender Man Attack

The Slender Man stabbing left a lasting impact not only on the victims but also on public awareness around youth mental health, online safety, and violent influences. Both Geyser and Weier were initially found not guilty by reason of mental disease, and they spent several years in secure mental health facilities.

Conditional releases for both attackers have been closely monitored due to the nature of their crime. For Payton, who has openly shared her journey of recovery, personal safety remains a priority, which is why authorities keep her family informed of any developments related to Geyser.

What Happens Next

With Geyser still at large, law enforcement continues to urge vigilance from the public. Anyone with information about her whereabouts should contact 911 immediately. Meanwhile, the Leutner family continues to focus on their well-being, working closely with local authorities to ensure long-term safety and peace of mind.

Payton Lautner's story serves as both a warning and an inspiration—demonstrating resilience in the face of trauma and the importance of community support in ensuring safety after violent incidents.