Kylea Sterner, a 33‑year‑old mother from Galveston, Texas, who had been missing since late December, was found dead this week, authorities and her family confirmed. The discovery brings a heartbreaking end to days of frantic searching by loved ones, volunteers, and local officials.
Sterner was last heard from on December 30, 2025, and had not been seen in person for several days before that. Her disappearance quickly became a source of deep concern for her family and the community. Friends shared her information widely on social media and joined in efforts to locate her, holding onto hope even as day after day went by without news.
In a statement released through relatives, Sterner’s family said they are “devastated” by her death. They thanked everyone who shared information, reached out with support, and helped spread the word during the search. “The support and effort from so many people meant a great deal to our family,” the statement said, but did not offer details on how she was found or the circumstances of her death.
Law enforcement officials have said the case remains under active investigation. They confirmed that, at this time, no additional information is being released, and they continue to work to understand what happened in the days leading up to her disappearance and death.
Sterner’s family noted in their announcement that she had struggled for a long time with depression, acknowledging the pain she lived with and the difficulty her loved ones now face in processing their loss. They asked for privacy as they grieve and prepare to share details about funeral and memorial arrangements when they are ready.
Friends and acquaintances remembered her as warm and welcoming, someone who brought light into ordinary moments. One friend recalled fondly how she would stream local band performances on TikTok and was affectionately nicknamed “pizza girl” by people who knew her from community hangouts. These remembrances hint at the woman behind the headlines — a neighbor, friend, and mother whose absence will be deeply felt.
As the Galveston community mourns, family members and local supporters are encouraging each other to stay connected and seek support during this difficult time. Authorities said they will provide further information if and when it becomes appropriate as the investigation continues.
