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Girl, 9, runs away, sparking large search

 
Published Aug. 7, 1999|Updated Sept. 29, 2005

Chaquandra Monique Clark, 9, wanted to go swimming Friday afternoon, but her mother said no.

The girl subsequently disappeared, triggering a sizable search by Hillsborough County sheriff's deputies before she was found a couple of miles from her home.

Detective Lisa Haber said up to 18 deputies, a helicopter and two canine units searched the area around the girl's home at 2002 131st Ave. E, in the University of South Florida area.

The search began just after 5:30 p.m. and ended just after 11 when Chaquandra called the Tampa Police Department.

She was found at 15501 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., north of Bearss Avenue. Haber said the girl called police because she got frightened.

There was no evidence of neglect, and no charges will be filed, Haber said.

_ Compiled from staff and wire reports