The Boston Police Department has issued a missing person alert for 16-year-old Joshua Echevarria, urging the Dorchester community to come forward with any information that could help locate the teenager. According to officials, Joshua was last observed at around 5:00 AM on April 15, 2024, in the vicinity of 118 Lonsdale Street, sporting a red hooded sweatshirt, red sweatpants, and a red ski mask.

Described as an Hispanic male, Joshua stands at approximately 5 feet 8 inches tall and weighs about 130 pounds, he's of a thin build and has curly shoulder-length brown hair, the police are concerned for his well-being, given his young age and the fact that he has been missing for several days now. The search for Joshua extends to his 15-year-old girlfriend Jayla Santiago, also reported missing since April 12; the two teens, known to be together, were last seen near the Maverick MBTA station in East Boston on April 14.

Authorities are calling on individuals with any pertinent information on Joshua's whereabouts to immediately contact 911 or reach out to the C-11 District Detectives at 617-343-4335. In response to the sensitivity around missing youth cases, the BPD has provided alternative means for anonymous tips, recognizing that some may wish to share what they know without revealing their identities.

Anonymous informants can dial the CrimeStoppers Tip Line at 1-800-494-TIPS or send a text message with the word 'TIP' to CRIME (27463), the police department holds the position that even the smallest piece of information could prove pivotal in ensuring the safe return of these young individuals to their worried families and the community that seeks to embrace them once again.