After six long years, Kayla Unbehaun has been found safe. The 15-year-old, who went missing at age 9 in 2017, was spotted by a store employee in Asheville, North Carolina — all thanks to an episode of Unsolved Mysteries that aired in 2022.
The employee recognized Kayla and called police. Officers responded quickly, confirmed her identity, and reunited her with her father, Ryan Iskerka, who hadn’t seen her since she vanished.
Kayla had been living quietly with her mother, Heather Unbehaun, who was arrested on a fugitive warrant. She’s since been released on bond and awaits legal proceedings in Illinois.
Kayla’s father expressed deep gratitude to everyone who helped bring her home and asked for privacy as they begin healing together.
This emotional reunion shows the power of persistence, media coverage, and a single watchful eye. After years of heartbreak, Kayla’s story ends with hope — and a long-awaited embrace.
