11/07/2026 03:28 - Judiciales
The search that kept the residents of Buenos Aires' Belgrano neighborhood on edge ended happily on Friday, July 10, 2026.
According to reports from TN (an Argentine news channel), Jessica Benitez Barbudes (18) was located at 6:50 PM on Friday, July 10, 2026 in the Caballito neighborhood. For those unfamiliar with the city, both Belgrano and Caballito are prominent residential neighborhoods within Buenos Aires, located several kilometers apart. The young woman was found safe and sound, walking towards a friend's house.
The successful resolution was achieved thanks to the tireless efforts of the Buenos Aires City Police (Policía de la Ciudad) and the National Criminal and Correctional Prosecutor's Office No. 4. Their investigation successfully pinpointed her location. The relief came just hours after her family, friends, and teachers held a peaceful protest near her school, urging for answers.
Jessica was last seen on Tuesday, July 7, 2026. She left her home to attend school but never returned. The Missing Persons Division (División Búsqueda de Personas) immediately took over the investigation.
Her mother, Fanny, received a phone call on Thursday, July 9, from a resident claiming to have seen the young woman in Don Bosco, Quilmes (a district in the Greater Buenos Aires area, outside the autonomous city). This led the mother to file an additional report at the local police station.
Jessica's mother shared that the young woman was diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) on June 29, 2026. BPD is a mental health condition characterized by severe mood swings, impulsive behavior, and difficulty in regulating emotions. Prior to her disappearance, Jessica had unfortunately experienced a suicide attempt by ingesting approximately 20 pills. She had a scheduled psychiatric appointment for July 22 to continue her treatment. Her mother noted that Jessica tends to emotionally isolate herself and delete text messages. She had a similar episode during the Argentine summer (December to February), leaving without warning, though she had safely returned on that occasion.
This wonderful news brings profound relief to the entire community, which now looks forward to the young woman's full recovery and continued well-being.
Alfredo S. Quiroga
