Police have confirmed as of 9:20 pm Saturday, October 21, that Ashley Garland, the missing 15-year-old, has been located in Powell River and is safe.

Powell River RCMP are asking for the public’s assistance in locating a missing teenager.

Ashley Garland, 15, is described as five-feet, eight-inches tall, 140 pounds, with shoulder-length blonde hair. She has been missing since the early morning of Tuesday, October 17.

Originally from Comox, Garland has been living in Powell River under the care of BC Ministry of Children and Family Development, said Powell River RCMP corporal Aaron Hamilton.

“We are working with MCFD and Comox Valley RCMP to locate her and get her back to her foster home,” said Hamilton.

Garland was last seen in Powell River with a 36-year-old male, also from Comox. Police have since been in contact with the man and are following up on other possible places the teen may have gone.

“Our concern is her age and with the changing weather conditions,” added Hamilton. “We’re not sure exactly if she has shelter or what her situation is.”

Hamilton said it is possible Garland is no longer in Powell River and may have returned to Comox.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact Powell River RCMP at 604.485.6255, or to remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 1.800.222.TIPS (8477) or online at bccrimestoppers.com.