4-year-old walks away from Kingsport elementary; discovered by stranger blocks away

KINGSPORT, Tenn. (WJHL)- News Channel 11 has confirmed a 4-year-old girl walked away from Abraham Lincoln Elementary School Wednesday while on her way from the classroom to the bathroom, according to the child’s parents.

At the time, the little girl was being escorted by teachers when school administrators told the girl’s parents that she somehow wandered off.

The girl was found a few blocks away from the elementary school by a complete stranger.

The little girl was able to tell the stranger where she lived, so she could be taken home.

The mother was at home when the little girl showed up. She told News Channel 11 she could hear her child crying outside.

Once inside the home, the mother reports her child was okay.

Not long after the girl showed up at home, school administrators called to report that the child was missing.

Kingsport City Schools issued the following statement following a request for comment:

“First and foremost, we are relieved that our young student is safe. The situation today is certainly not what is expected and is causing us to fully examine our processes and protocols. Dr. Moorhouse has spoken with Mrs. Collins today to express our shared concern. We understand that she and our community place a high expectation of trust in us, and steps will be taken to address these concerns based on what occurred today. “

Kingsport City Schools officials