The Knoxville Police Department confirmed the safe return of an 8-year-old boy reported missing yesterday afternoon. According to WATE, the child left a residence near Beaumont Avenue at around 4:40 p.m. The police later announced at approximately 7:15 p.m. that the boy was found unharmed.
The missing child, identified as Maricio Pedro-Juan, had been the focus of an urgent search that mobilized community members and law enforcement. When he was last seen he was wearing a blue shirt, white jeans, and black tennis shoes. WBIR relayed the police department's message of gratitude for the public's assistance, stating "Thanks as always for helping to spread the word."
The Knoxville Police Department was proactive in their efforts to locate Pedro-Juan, posting updates and descriptors of the child on social media. WVLT shared a post from the department that included a photo of the boy and a description of his clothing, urging anyone with information to contact authorities immediately.
