Family pleads for safe return of missing Orangeburg girl

ORANGEBURG, S.C. (WIS) - The family of missing 5-year-old Aspen Jeter is calling for her safe return.

Her mother, Crystal Jumper, was found dead after a welfare check on Thanksgiving. The family last heard from Jumper on Nov. 1.

An autopsy report ruled Jumper’s death a homicide, she died of a gunshot wound. The family said she was found in her bed.

Investigators visited the house of Jeter’s father on Dec. 1 in West Columbia.

Members of the family and attorney Justin Bamberg held a news conference Monday to ask for her father, Antar Jeter, to return her safely. The conference began at 11 a.m. at Bamberg Legal in Orangeburg.

Sheriff Leroy Ravenell said their latest spotting positioned them near Raleigh, N.C., on Nov. 30. He said the FBI, U.S. Marshals, and other agencies have become involved in the search.

Investigators said they wanted to speak with Antar Jeter in relation to the case.

Bamberg said Aspen is one of 10 children in the United States suffering from a rare disorder, Neurodevelopmental disorder with or without autistic features and/or structural brain abnormalities. NEDASB leaves her unable to speak or walk and must be carried or pushed in a stroller.

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