UPDATE – Police Confirm Missing 15-Year-Old Has Been Found

15-year-old Missoula teen Tayla Matte was found today after running away from home on December 2.

A Missoula resident recognized her shortly before noon after seeing her in the laundry room of an apartment complex in the 3600 block of Stephens.

"We received a call from a citizen who reported that she believed a young lady that matched the description of Tayla Matte was currently in an apartment complex laundry room," Public Information Officer Travis Welsh said. "An officer responded, located Tayla and she is now in protective custody."

Missoula police issued a photo of Tayla on Monday after hearing reports that she had been struggling to find food and shelter.

Welsh said investigators are concerned about possible criminal activity Matte may have suffered while she was missing.