A teenager from South Carolina, who had been reported missing late last year, has been located safely, and authorities have detained a suspect in connection with the case.

The Lexington County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that 16-year-old Mackenzie Dalton was discovered in Lexington County after an investigation into her disappearance.

Officials mentioned there is no evidence to suggest that Dalton was ever held against her will or was with anyone she did not choose to be with.

Dalton was initially reported missing when she was last seen leaving her home in late November, as stated in a January 2 announcement from the sheriff’s office. At that time, she was considered an endangered juvenile due to her age and the duration of her absence.

The Lexington County deputies announced that Mackenzie Dalton, missing since late November, was found safe on January 6, 2026. (Lexington County Sheriff’s Office/Facebook)

Investigators previously said they believed Dalton may have been with a man she knew, although authorities did not release the man’s identity.

The sheriff’s office said the vehicle Dalton drove away in and the suitcase she took from her home were recovered during the investigation. The teen was described as 5 feet, 4 inches tall and weighing 118 pounds.

Police arrested Mackenzie Keith English Jr., 18, in this case. He was charged with obstruction of justice. He is accused of lying to investigators about being with Dalton and his knowledge of her location. (Lexington County Sheriff’s Office)

Deputies arrested Mackenzie Keith English Jr., 18, charging him with obstruction of justice, during their investigation.

Authorities accuse English of lying to investigators about being with Dalton and about his knowledge of her whereabouts.

Investigators said 16-year-old Mackenzie Dalton, who left her home in late November, has been found safe. (AWARE Foundation)

English is being held at the Lexington County Detention Center, the sheriff’s office said.