Melissa Ann Collins, 17 & Jasmine, 7 Months: Mother-Daughter Missing From Akron, Foul Play Suspected
In the late summer of 1991, Melissa Ann Collins was a teen mom. The 17-year-old had run away from home for a month while pregnant, but even then, she called home to let her family know that she was safe. However, when she disappeared and was never heard from again, her loved ones feared the worst, particularly because Melissa was known to speak with her mother daily.
Melissa was subletting an apartment in Akron, Ohio, from an unnamed woman living with a mentally ill man known for his long, violent criminal history and drug use named Raymond “Sweet Pea” Smith. The teen had recently given birth to her daughter, Jasmine Kirlissa Collins, and according to reports, the mother-daughter duo was last seen by Smith, who told authorities that he spotted them walking toward the grocery store at around 7:30 p.m. on August 8, 1991.
The Investigation Into Raymond Smith
According to authorities, there is no evidence to suggest that Melissa had any traveling plans, and she didn’t take any money or items with her when she left. Investigators zeroed in on Smith. He, too, left the apartment that day, not long after the mother and daughter. It was reported Melissa did complain to her mother about Smith. She said she was afraid of him, particularly because he would make passes at her.
According to a witness, Smith returned to the complex days late, covered in what looked to be blood stains. Unfortunately, this information wasn’t reported to police in enough time to locate the alleged clothing and have it tested. Moreover, Smith would take any secrets he may have had to the grave. Six months after the mother and daughter disappeared, Smith took his own life. He left a note behind that was blank aside from the words: “To whom it may concern.” The exact motive is unknown, but it was stated Smith was up against a slew of serious legal issues related to possible imprisonment again.
Melissa Ann Collins & Jasmine Collins: What To Know
At the time of her disappearance, Melissa Ann Collins stood 5 feet 3 inches tall and weighed 120 pounds. Melissa is biracial (Black and white). She has brown hair, brown eyes, and a scar on her upper left arm. Her nicknames are “Lisa” and “Lisaboone.” She would be in her 40s at the time of this publication. Melissa wore glasses and had a scar on her upper left arm.
Jasmine was less than a year old. She had black/dark brown hair and brown eyes. She would be 29 years old at the time of this publication.
Anyone with information regarding this case is urged to contact the Akron Police Department at (330) 375-2552 or their local authorities.
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