More than two decades after the heartbreaking disappearance of Teekah Lewis, a new development has brought fresh attention to the cold case. Tacoma police are currently investigating a recent claim from an individual who walked into police headquarters and said they are Teekah Lewis—the little girl who vanished from a bowling alley in 1999.
A New Claim in a Longstanding Mystery
The person claiming to be Teekah came forward just days after the anniversary of her disappearance, which took place on January 23, 1999. According to the Tacoma Police Department, it’s not uncommon for such claims to surface around this time of year. As police explained, they receive tips and claims through various channels—emails, phone calls, and sometimes even in person.
Each claim is taken seriously and investigated separately. Police say part of the process often includes DNA testing, which helps confirm whether the claim holds any truth.
What Happened the Night Teekah Disappeared
Teekah Lewis was just two years old when she vanished around 10:30 p.m. from the New Frontier Lanes bowling alley on Center Street in Tacoma, Washington. She had been playing in the arcade area while her family was nearby, but in an instant, she was gone.
She was last seen wearing:
- A green Tweety Bird T-shirt
- White sweatpants
- Red, white, and black Air Jordan shoes
Teekah was described at the time as a Black and Native American girl, about three feet tall, weighing around 35 pounds, with brown eyes, black hair, and pierced ears. She also had asthma and allergies, details that were made public in hopes that someone might recognize her or provide helpful information.
Suspicious Vehicle Sighting
Detectives reported that shortly after Teekah disappeared, a maroon Pontiac Grand Am, possibly from the late 1980s or early 1990s, was seen speeding out of the parking lot. The car had tinted windows and a spoiler—details that have remained important to investigators over the years.
Despite multiple searches, leads, and national attention, no arrests have been made, and Teekah has never been found.
The Case Remains Open
Teekah’s case is still officially open. Over the years, the Tacoma Police Department has worked closely with national agencies and used age-progression technology to imagine what Teekah might look like today. Those images have been shared publicly in the hopes of generating new leads.
Though dozens of tips have come and gone, her family continues to hold out hope, and annual memorials help keep her memory alive in the community.
What Happens Next
Tacoma police say they are following standard procedure with the new claim. DNA testing will likely play a key role in verifying the person’s identity. While past claims have not panned out, police remain committed to investigating every possibility thoroughly.
In cases like this, even one credible tip can change everything.
How the Public Can Help
Anyone who may have information about Teekah Lewis or the events of that night is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers of Tacoma/Pierce County at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477). Tips can be submitted anonymously, and even the smallest detail might help move the investigation forward.
