Local authorities in Tippecanoe County are escalating their efforts to find 10-year-old Gabriel Hurt, who was last seen entering a cornfield near the 7000 block of CR 50 W at approximately 9 p.m. on Sunday night. As reported by FOX59, the Tippecanoe County Sheriff's Office emphasized that Gabriel is hearing-impaired and autistic, and advised that he may run if approached by strangers.
Several search teams are combing through the area, hoping to find any sign of the missing boy, however the vastness of the fields and the complexities of the terrain add to the challenge of this endeavor. WTHR reported that various crews across the county have been mobilized. In the, statement obtained by the news outlet, officials reiterated their call for public assistance in the search for Gabriel.
According to a statement from the Tippecanoe Township Volunteer Fire Department, the area where Gabriel was last seen is west of Interstate 65, close to Burnett Creek, and represents challenging search grounds. WISH-TV noted the added difficulties presented by Gabriel's condition, which could make him more likely to flee from potential rescuers out of fear or misunderstanding.
