Family of Missing Anaheim Girl Requests Public’s Help

The family of a 15-year-old Katella High School student who has been missing for more than a month appealed to the public for help in locating her.

Jennifer Lee Burrel was last seen at the school March 5. Since then, family, friends and others at spots she frequented have been unable to provide clues to her whereabouts.

Thomas Martin, a private investigator hired by the girl’s family, said he has exhausted all efforts to find her. “In a word, we’re at ground zero,” he said. “I’ve never had a case like this.”

According to Martin, Burrel has a history of running away but has remained in contact with her mother during previous episodes.

“It does raise [some] concern that no one has heard from her,” suggesting the case may be more than a routine runaway, said Anaheim Police Sgt. Chuck Craig.

Kim Schatzlein last talked with her daughter during a routine telephone call around March 5--the day she disappeared, Martin said. Friends and family have indicated that Burrel’s silence is unusual.

The teenager has been a yearlong resident at a home for troubled teens in Anaheim. Her mother and stepfather live in Las Vegas; Burrel’s natural father--believed to live in Southern California--lost contact with his daughter long ago, Martin said.

Burrel is 5 feet 9 with short, blond hair. She takes medication prescribed for a manic-depressive condition, Martin said.

Anaheim police urge anyone with information to call (714) 765-1900.