A mother in Oregon reportedly discovered her missing 5-year-old kid when she woke up from a weekend nap, according to authorities.
According to a missing persons bulletin issued by the Coos County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO), autistic Joshua James McCoy was last seen at his Hauser home on Stage Road on Saturday, Nov. 9.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, Joshua’s mother went to bed at about 1:00 p.m. local time and did not wake up until approximately 5:30 p.m.
While “nothing definitive” was found, authorities did disclose that “some clues were found” during the early stages of the hunt for Joshua.
“Nothing is being ruled out at this time as we are considering all possible avenues,” the CCSO said in a statement on Monday, Nov. 11. “We maintain hope that Joshua will be found alive and well.”
As per the information provided in the missing persons report, Joshua is described as being approximately 3 feet, 6 inches tall and weighing 50 to 60 pounds. He wears his hair down to his shoulders and his eyes are brown.
Although he “may not respond when called to,” the youngster is claimed to react to either “Josh” or “Joshie.”
The department has said that 61 ground troops, along with helicopter support and K-9 resources, are being provided by CORSAR, a search and rescue operation spanning seven counties in Oregon and California, to aid in the hunt for Joshua.
Authorities anticipate the arrival of more resources on Tuesday, Nov. 12, and the sheriff’s office has “also requested assistance from State and Federal agencies” to help.
“Almost always the person is found within 300 meters of the last known location, and we’ve already expanded well beyond the 300-meter point,” said Sheriff Gabe Fabrizio.
Officials have issued a warning to the public, urging them not to go looking for Joshua in the vicinity alone.
“The concern is that evidence would be missed or tainted with an overwhelming number of personnel on scene,” the Coos County Sheriff’s Office explained in their statement.
The number 541-269-8911 should be dialed by anyone who may have information regarding Joshua.