Nationwide — Arianna Fitts, an African American girl from San Francisco, California, was 2 years old when she went missing in 2016, and her mother was found dead days later. The FBI is still searching for Arianna and hopes a new age-progression image will help.
Arianna’s mother, Nicole Fitts, was discovered buried in McLaren Park shortly after Arianna disappeared. Investigators believe her death and Arianna’s disappearance are connected, and that the same people are likely responsible for both crimes.
According to KTVU, the FBI has been working the case from the beginning, partnering closely with the San Francisco Police Department. In 2024, both agencies released an updated age-progression image showing what Arianna may look like at 11 years old, aiming to generate new leads.
Arianna’s aunt, Contessa Fitts, said the family believes someone may have taken Arianna for themselves. She recalls her sister being lured by the family babysitter, who, along with her husband, is now considered a person of interest. Authorities have not publicly confirmed their identities or relationships to the family.
Forensics remains a central part of the investigation. The FBI says DNA evidence is still available, and new technology may help uncover crucial leads. A $250,000 reward is being offered for information that leads to the conviction of those responsible.
For Contessa, memories captured in photos and videos keep hope alive. She says the family continues searching for Arianna and wants justice for both the child and her mother. The new age-progression image offers renewed hope that Arianna could be found and reunited with her family.
“I can’t give up. I can’t stop searching,” said Contessa. “Catch the people who are responsible. Have some justice for the innocent lives they took.”