An Ironton-area family has one message: Ashley come home.

Ashley Nicole Jenkins, 17, was reported missing Sept. 27 after fleeing from Mended Reeds youth center in Ironton.

Ashley is the daughter of Larry and Debbie Jenkins. The juvenile was reported missing and family members say not knowing has been the hardest part.

&#8220We have been trying our best to have her call us. She's not in any trouble,” said Otis Jenkins, her grandfather. &#8220We just want her to come home. We want to know she is alive an all right.”

The family has suffered through many rumors that the girl has killed, each time fearing the worst. The family has been thankful that each has proven to be false.

Ashley has blonde hair and brown eyes. She is 5 feet, 6 inches tall and weighs 120 pounds. She has a chain-like tattoo on her back and a circular birthmark on her right leg.

Jenkins is not in the missing persons database because she is a runaway but local law enforcement agencies have been notified. The juvenile court has relinquished custody of her

to the parents.

&#8220We can't get anyone to help,” Otis Jenkins said. &#8220We just get one rumor after another.”

Anyone with information can contact the family at (740) 534-9569 or (740) 534-9521.