A 9-year-old boy with autism who went missing from an IKEA store in Brooklyn on Wednesday night is still being searched for by the police and his family. The boy, who is nonverbal, was last seen walking towards the water near the store around 9 p.m., just two minutes before the store closed for the day. The store is located on the shore of the Erie Basin and Gowanus Bay, which are connected to the New York Harbor.
The boy’s name has not been released by the authorities, but his family has shared his photo and description on social media, asking for anyone who might have seen him to contact them or the police. He is described as having black hair, brown eyes, and wearing a blue shirt, black pants, and black sneakers. He also has a scar on his forehead.
The boy’s mother told reporters that she was shopping with her son and her other children when he wandered off. She said she tried to look for him inside the store, but could not find him. She then alerted the security guards, who called the police.
Police deployed divers, helicopters, and dogs to search for the boy
The police have launched a massive search operation to find the missing boy, using divers, helicopters, dogs, and drones. They have also checked nearby buildings, parks, and subway stations. They have recovered one of the boy’s shoes near the shoreline, which raised concerns that he might have fallen into the water.
The NYPD Chief of Department Rodney Harrison said that the search is challenging because of the dark and murky conditions of the water. He said that the divers have to use their hands to feel for anything in the water, and that they have encountered debris and garbage that could hamper their efforts. He also said that the water temperature is cold, which could affect the boy’s chances of survival.
Harrison said that the police are not giving up hope, and that they are doing everything they can to locate the boy. He urged anyone who might have information or tips to call 911 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS.
Community members joined the search and offered prayers
The boy’s disappearance has sparked an outpouring of support from the community, especially from other parents of children with autism. Many people have joined the search efforts, handing out flyers, talking to witnesses, and scouring the area for any clues. Some have also brought food, water, and blankets for the boy’s family and the search teams.
Others have offered prayers and words of encouragement for the boy’s safe return. A vigil was held on Thursday night at a nearby church, where people lit candles and sang songs. A local pastor said that he believes that God will protect the boy and reunite him with his family.
The boy’s father thanked everyone who has helped in the search, and said that he is holding on to his faith. He said that he loves his son very much, and that he hopes to see him again soon.
