Missing teen being rescued by making a hand gesture found on tiktok

By: Sarin Istanboulli, Features Editor, Pawprint

On November 7, 2021, a teenager that had been missing from North Carolina was found by the Kentucky police after she had made a gesture for help that is known on TikTok, that represents violence at home, according to police.  

A 16-year old girl from Asheville, North Carolina had been reported missing by her parents on Tuesday. However, on Thursday, someone had contacted 911 stating they had seen the girl in distress inside a vehicle on the interstate. 

The Laurel County Sheriff’s Office had a statement that read “The complainant was behind the vehicle and noticed a female passenger in the vehicle making hand gestures that are known on the social media platform ‘TikTok’ to represent violence at home – I need help – domestic violence.”

The gesture is quick and simple as someone in distress would be able to do with one hand. The Canadian WOmen’s Foundation explained how the gesture is done. Someone would have to hold out their hand with their palm facing out, then tuck their thumbs in their hands and close their fingers to trap their thumbs. 

The person who had called 911, stayed behind the vehicle for seven miles relaying information to police, according to WYMT. Police were able to pull over the car and rescue the teen.