In the early summer of 2025, a young girl named Karmen Ricks, then 7 years old, vanished from her home in Charlotte, North Carolina. On June 2nd, Karmen, along with her two sisters, 10-year-old Kali and 5-year-old Kadence, were last seen. The circumstances surrounding their disappearance point to a familial abduction, as they are believed to be in the company of their mother, Khristina Cunningham. Another unidentified older adult female may also be with them. The disappearance of the three sisters has sparked a multi-state investigation, creating a heart-wrenching situation for those who know and love them.
As the investigation into the children's whereabouts unfolded, legal actions were taken against their mother. On October 26, 2026, a felony warrant for Custodial Interference was issued for Khristina Cunningham. This development officially classified the case as a parental kidnapping.
While the children went missing from Charlotte, the case has drawn the attention of law enforcement agencies beyond North Carolina. The Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office in California has expressed a significant interest in locating the children, suggesting that the family may have traveled across the country. The involvement of a District Attorney's office from a state so far from where they were last seen indicates the complexity and seriousness of the investigation.
The search for Karmen and her sisters continues, with law enforcement and child advocacy organizations working to bring them home safely. The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children has circulated posters and information about the three girls, hoping for any leads from the public. This case is a poignant example of the often-complicated nature of missing children's cases, especially when family members are involved. The primary goal of the investigation is to ensure the well-being of Kali, Karmen, and Kadence Ricks and to resolve a situation that has now spanned over a year and crossed state lines. The felony warrant for their mother, Khristina Cunningham, underscores the legal and emotional gravity of this ongoing and troubling case of custodial interference.Last Seen: Jun 2, 2025
