The Missouri family of a missing child was relieved to hear he was located and safe after being last seen on the evening of April 16.
Nixa Police Department confirmed officers found Kyah Kendrick, 12, at 11:50 p.m. local time, just two hours after he was reported missing on the same night.
Police thanked the community for assisting with the investigation.
Kendrick’s parents noticed there was something wrong when they could not find Kyah about 8:50 p.m. on April 16 near the intersection of S. Lantern Hill and Peachum Place in Nixa, 14 miles south of Springfield.
Police described the boy as “Caucasian with blonde hair, blue eyes, no glasses, about 5 foot tall, and 85 pounds.” He was wearing red shorts and a grey Royals t-shirt without shoes.
Exactly how Kendrick went missing remains unclear as authorities would not comment on what had happened.
“Some question arose as to suspect information, circumstances, etc ... often times there is very little we can comment on when it deals with juvenile cases or active investigations,” police said. “In missing children cases, there could be several reasons why they are missing. However, anytime there is a public safety issue with any case or if there is an abduction we would provide suspect and safety-related information to the public as we receive it.”
The City of Nixa was also staying tight-lipped and reconfirmed what the police had said.
Concerned citizens used social media to express their appreciation towards police for helping to reunite the family.
“Thank you for your dedication to our community and helping keep our kiddos safe,” Shelly McMasters Gerster said.
“So, so, so glad he has been located. Hats off to the Nixa Police Department,” Corey Brown said.
“Nixa Police Department this wonderful news. Great job in finding him,” Cheryl Richards said.
“Thank you for all your hard work, tips, and for answered prayers,” Karen Stockton said.
