Lawrence County authorities are looking for a 17-year-old girl reported missing by her parents earlier this week.

Jessica Simpkins, 17, of 2119 S. Second St., Ironton, was last seen Friday, Sept. 7 or Saturday, Sept. 8.

Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office Detective Andy Sisler said the girl and her parents, James and Tonia Simpkins, had been staying with friends at 38 Private Drive 9179 in Kitts Hill when James Simpkins was hospitalized.

Tonia Simpkins was with her husband so they left their daughter with friends, Sue Smith, her son David Smith and a relative, David Crank, who is said to be Jessica Simpkins’ boyfriend.

When James Simpkins was released from the hospital, they tried to contact the Smiths and Crank and when they were unable to reach them by telephone, went to the mobile home in Kitts Hill and found it empty.

“All information indicates she left on her own and is with him (Crank),” Sisler said.

Jessica Simpkins is described as 4 feet 7 inches tall, 100 pounds with brown hair and blue eyes. Crank is described as 6 feet 2 inches tall with brown hair and green eyes. He is deaf.

Anyone with information as to their whereabouts may call the sheriff’s office at 532-3525.