Teekah's Story

Teekah was born to parents Theresa Czapiewski and Robert Lewis on July 4th,1996. Teekah vanished from a busy family outing in Tacoma, Washington on January 23, 1999,

On that evening, Teekah was at the New Frontier Lanes bowling alley with her family. According to reports, she was playing just a few feet away from her mother, browsing arcade games, when she suddenly disappeared within minutes. Family members say her mother turned away briefly and then, when she turned back, Teekah was gone. 

At the time she went missing, Teekah was wearing a green and white Tweety Bird sweatshirt, white sweatpants, and white Air Jordan sneakers. She had asthma and a noticeable birthmark and skin discoloration. 

Despite an extensive search that included law enforcement, FBI agents, helicopters, infrared technology, and tracking dogs, no trace of Teekah has ever been found. 

Clues, Leads, and Ongoing Investigation

In the hours after she disappeared, an eyewitness reported seeing a maroon, late-1980s or early-1990s Pontiac Grand Am speeding out of the bowling alley parking lot, a detail that has remained part of the investigation. 

Over the years, investigators have followed tips and pursued leads, including suspect descriptions, possible sightings, and even digs at locations in Tacoma based on tips. In May 2025, Tacoma Police conducted a backyard excavation related to the cold case based on a tip, but officials later confirmed no evidence of value was found. 

Authorities have also released age-progressed images of what Teekah might look like as an adult in hopes the public might recognize her, and her case remains open. 

Her Family’s Resolve

Teekah’s mother, Theresa Czapiewski, has publicly vowed to continue searching for her daughter. At a public forum marking the case’s 25th anniversary, she spoke about her ongoing hope and frustration, urging anyone with information to come forward. 

Family, friends, and community members hold vigils and awareness events, and social campaigns continue to share her story locally and online. While details have faded over time, the promise to “never give up hope” remains at the heart of her family’s message.