The DeKalb County Police Department is urgently searching for a missing non-verbal teenager with a disability who was last seen on January 18. Seventeen-year-old Shawn Ward is reported to be missing according to the DeKalb County authorities.
According to FOX 5 Atlanta, Ward was last spotted around 9 p.m. near the 1000 block of North Hairston Road in Decatur. He is described as approximately 5 feet tall and weighs 134 pounds. When last seen, he was wearing a black sweatshirt adorned with the phrase "Billion Status," along with gray sweatpants and distinctive gold Nike shoes – notably without laces.
Ward's condition, Fragile X Syndrome, is a serious concern as he is required to constantly take medication multiple times a day, amplifying the urgency of the situation. This genetic disorder means Ward has a cognitive function similar to that of a 7 to 9-year-old, despite being 17.
Information provided by Black Enterprise details that Fragile X Syndrome, or FXS, is a disorder that can cause the affected child to endure several developmental challenges, learning disabilities, as well as social and behavioral issues.
The DeKalb Police Department has taken to social media to appeal for public assistance in locating Ward. "Help us find Shawn Ward, 17, who was last seen 1/18 at his home near 1000 N. Hairston Rd in Stone Mountain. He's 5ft, 134 lbs. with/ brown eyes & black hair. He was last seen wearing a black sweatshirt with 'Billionaire Status' on the front, gray sweatpants, & Nike sneakers with no laces. If you see him call 911 or SVU at 770-724-7710. #WeAreDKPD," the department urged in a post.
