The community of Dunbar Borough, Pennsylvania, is grieving the heartbreaking loss of 9-year-old Renesmee (often spelled Renesmay) Eutsey, who was first reported missing earlier this week. Authorities and neighbors initially held out hope for her safe return, but the search came to a devastating end when her body was discovered along the Youghiogheny River near Smithton Borough.
Renesmee Eutsey Missing
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Renesmee (Renesmay) Eutsey |
| Age | 9 years old |
| Residence | Dunbar Borough, Pennsylvania |
| Family | Lived with adoptive mother Kourtney Eutsey and siblings |
| Known for | Sweet nature, loved by her siblings and remembered by the community |
| Status | Reported missing September 3, 2025; later found deceased near Smithton Borough |
A Tragic Case Unfolds
On Wednesday around noon, Pennsylvania State Police responded to a home in Dunbar Borough after a missing child was reported. Renesmee, a child with special needs, had last been seen by family members the previous evening. Her adoptive mother, Kourtney Eutsey, and another adult, Sarah Shipley, initially told investigators that the child may have run away.
As police continued interviews, however, disturbing details began to emerge. Other children in the household revealed troubling accounts, with one sibling telling troopers she was “never going to see [her] baby sister again because she’s in heaven.” Another child told police that Renesmee had been hurt and later placed into a tote bag before being taken away.
Investigators say Kourtney Eutsey eventually admitted that Renesmee had fallen seriously ill after an injury and passed away in the home. Instead of contacting authorities, she allegedly concealed the tragedy by placing the girl’s body in a bag and leaving it by the river.
The Charges
Police later recovered Renesmee’s remains, and Kourtney Eutsey was taken into custody. She now faces multiple charges, including:
-
Criminal homicide
-
Aggravated assault (with intent to cause serious injury to a child under 13)
-
Concealment of the death of a child
Sarah Shipley, who was also present in the home, has not yet been charged as of Thursday morning, though the investigation is ongoing.
Remembering Renesmee
Behind the headlines and legal proceedings is the story of a young girl whose life ended far too soon. Renesmee was only nine years old, described by those who knew her as a sweet and loving child who faced challenges but also brought light to those around her. She was a daughter, a sister, and a member of the Dunbar community whose loss has left neighbors reeling.
The tragedy has drawn sorrow not only from local families but from across Pennsylvania, as the details highlight both the vulnerability of children and the importance of protecting them.
Community Response
The heartbreaking case has shaken Fayette County and surrounding areas. Many have shared prayers for Renesmee and her surviving siblings, while others have called for greater support systems to protect children in vulnerable situations.
At Annunciation Church and other nearby parishes, prayers and vigils have been held for the young girl. Messages of condolences continue to flood social media as people express grief, shock, and outrage at the circumstances of her passing.
FAQs
Q: Who was Renesmee Eutsey?
A: Renesmee was a 9-year-old girl from Dunbar Borough, Pennsylvania, described as a sweet child with special needs.
Q: How did authorities find her?
A: After initially being reported missing, investigators interviewed family members and later discovered her body near the Youghiogheny River.
Q: Who has been charged in her case?
A: Her adoptive mother, Kourtney Eutsey, is facing multiple charges including criminal homicide. Sarah Shipley, another adult living in the home, has not yet been charged.
Q: How is the community responding?
A: Vigils, prayers, and messages of condolences are being shared across Fayette County, with many rallying behind Renesmee’s surviving siblings.
Q: How will Renesmee be remembered?
A: Despite her short life, Renesmee will be remembered as a loving little girl whose memory will remain in the hearts of her family and community.
Conclusion
The loss of Renesmee Eutsey is a tragedy that has shaken her community and sparked an outpouring of grief. Her story is a sobering reminder of the importance of protecting children and standing together in times of crisis. Though her life was far too short, her memory will endure through those who loved her and the community determined to honor her with compassion and care.
Leave a Reply