Family holds vigil for teenager missing since 2008

CHICAGO (WLS) -- A vigil was held Tuesday for Yasmin Acree, the 15-year-old girl who went missing 10 years ago from her family's home in Chicago's North Austin neighborhood.

Acree, the cousin of well-known pastor Ira Acree, went missing in 2008.

She was an honor student who spent her time at school and at the YMCA, family said.

Relatives said police have had numerous leads, including information about an upstairs neighbor charged with the rape and kidnapping of other teenage girls. Relatives said that neighbor told them several years ago he knew what happened to Yasmin.

But despite several media stories over the years, some showing what she might look like as she aged, Acree is still missing.

Her mother spent much of her time trying to find answers about what happened to Yasmin. She died nearly four years ago, never getting an answer.

Surviving relatives said they are committed to learning the truth.

"All we need is closure," said Cawanda Stearns, Acree's cousin.