Angelique Emily James, a 4-year-old girl, was last seen on February 15, 1997, at her family’s home in Los Angeles, California. Angelique was born with some physical challenges, including burn scars on the top of one foot, a shorter leg and arm due to a congenital skeletal condition, and a previously fractured left arm, which is visible only through X-ray.
Authorities became suspicious after her mother, Shirley Ann James, failed to cooperate when questioned about Angelique’s whereabouts. Nine months after Angelique's disappearance, in November 1997, Shirley was arrested and later charged with her daughter’s presumed murder, alongside multiple counts of child abuse. Despite extensive investigations, including a search of the family’s yard, Angelique’s body was never found.
Shirley eventually pleaded no contest to involuntary manslaughter and was sentenced to five years in prison in connection to her daughter’s death. To date, Angelique remains missing, and her case is still classified as an endangered missing child. Despite the charges and sentencing, the lack of closure in the form of a body leaves many unanswered questions.Last Seen: Feb 15, 1997
