Cherrie Mahan: The Enduring Mystery of a Missing Pennsylvania Girl

In a recent development that sent shockwaves across the country, a woman has come forward claiming to be Cherrie Mahan, an 8-year-old girl from Pennsylvania who disappeared in 1985.

In a recent development that sent shockwaves across the country, a woman has come forward claiming to be Cherrie Mahan, an 8-year-old girl from Pennsylvania who disappeared in 1985. Cherrie's mother, Janice McKinney, has expressed her deep skepticism about the identity of women. claims, stating that she knows immediately that it wasn't her daughter.

Cherrie Mahan was last seen Feb. 22, 1985, after getting off the school bus about 100 yards from her home in Cabot, about 30 miles northeast of Pittsburgh. The girl's disappearance sparked a massive investigation, with few leads emerging over the years. This latest claim, however, has brought new attention to the case and has many people wondering if the woman could actually be the long-lost Cherrie.

The woman, who has not been publicly identified, made her statement on a Facebook group dedicated to Cherrie Mahan. In a post dated May 23, she said she was Cherrie, a claim that quickly made national headlines. However, Cherrie's mother, Janice McKinney, was quick to dismiss the woman's claims, stating that she contacted the Pennsylvania State Police and that the woman's story did not match that of his daughter.

McKinney's skepticism is rooted in his deep emotional connection to his daughter and his intimate knowledge of Cherrie's appearance and personality. She expressed hope to one day uncover the truth behind her daughter's disappearance and urged detectives who worked the case to reconsider their findings.

The woman claiming to be Cherrie was blocked from the Facebook group and her posts removed due to her aggressive behavior and harassment from other group members. Group administrator Brock Organ pointed out that if the woman was truly Cherrie, she would have gone to a police station for a DNA test rather than making claims online.

Pennsylvania State Police are investigating the woman's complaint, but so far have not made contact with her. The department is working with a foreign agency to locate the woman and verify her identity.

The disappearance of Cherrie Mahan has had a profound impact on her family and the community. Every year, McKinney marks the anniversary of her daughter's disappearance by praying at the same place where Cherrie was last seen. The case remains active, with authorities still receiving information and working to uncover the truth behind Cherrie's disappearance.

As the investigation continues, it is crucial to keep in mind the emotional impact that false statements like this can have on the families of missing people. Cherrie's mother, Janice McKinney, has spoken publicly about the pain and uncertainty she has endured over the years, stating that not knowing is what "sucks the life out of you." His perseverance and hope for the truth are a testament to the enduring power of love and the human spirit.

Ultimately, the truth about Cherrie Mahan's disappearance will only be revealed through a thorough and professional investigation. As the search for answers continues, it is essential to prioritize the emotional well-being of those involved and ensure that any claims made are thoroughly fact-checked to avoid further trauma and uncertainty.

Cherrie Mahan's case is a poignant reminder of the countless families who have been affected by the loss of a loved one. The emotional toll of such an event can be overwhelming and the uncertainty that follows can be debilitating. It is crucial that law enforcement and the public approach these situations with sensitivity and understanding, ensuring that affected families receive the support and care they need during these difficult times.

In the years since Cherrie's disappearance, many tips and leads have been explored, but none have resulted in a conclusive resolution. The case remains mysterious and many questions remain unanswered. This woman's latest claim has brought new attention to the case, but it is essential to approach this development with caution and skepticism.

The Pennsylvania State Police have worked tirelessly to solve this case, and their dedication to seeking the truth is commendable. The agency used a variety of investigative techniques, including DNA analysis and forensic evidence, to uncover any clues that could help locate Cherrie. Despite these efforts, the case remains unsolved, leaving the family and community with a feeling of uncertainty and nostalgia.
Cherrie Mahan's story is a heartbreaking reminder of the devastating impact of missing persons on families and communities. This is a testament to the resilience and determination of those affected, who continue to maintain hope even in the face of overwhelming uncertainty. As the search for Cherrie continues, it is crucial that we remember the emotional toll of these cases and the importance of supporting those affected.


In conclusion, the woman's claim to be Cherrie Mahan has brought new attention to the case, but it is essential to approach this development with caution and skepticism. The Pennsylvania State Police are working diligently to verify this woman's allegations, and it is crucial that we allow her to conduct her investigation without speculation or interference. The truth about Cherrie Mahan's disappearance will only be revealed through a thorough and professional investigation, and we hope that one day the family will find the answers they have sought for so long..