Mint Butterfield, the child of Stewart Butterfield and Caterina Fake, founders of major tech companies, was found safe by California police after being missing for a week. Their parents, who cofounded Flickr and Slack, were relieved to have their 16-year-old child back home. Mint, who uses they/them pronouns, was reunited with their family in Bolinas.
The teenager’s stepfather, Jyri Engestrom, is also a tech founder, which further solidifies the family’s ties to the tech industry. Mint’s disappearance was a cause for concern due to a past suicide attempt, leading to law enforcement classifying them as a “voluntary-missing juvenile” at risk. Despite taking a suitcase and leaving a note, Mint did not have access to a car or a phone during their absence.
Mint’s safe return is thanks to the collaborative effort of family, friends, volunteers and strangers who came together to help locate them. The family released a statement expressing their gratitude for everyone who contributed in finding their loved one. With relief in their hearts, they welcome Mint back home and look forward to supporting them through any challenges that may come in the future.
