Three juveniles were reported missing in two separate incidents to the Durango Police Department Saturday evening. All three were found after the department began searching for the children and alerted residents that they were missing on social media.
DPD spokeswoman Amanda Garrison said the department was first notified two boys, aged 12 and 13 years old, had left home without permission from the Three Springs area after their family members were unable to locate them about 5 p.m. Saturday evening.
“Officers searched the area while the department issued a public request for assistance through social media,” she said. “The juveniles were later safely located by patrol officers and reunited with their mother.”
The two boys had been playing outside and decided to go to a nearby family member’s house, she said.
Around 6:30 p.m. Saturday, a 14 year-old girl was also reported missing, having last been seen near Arroyo Drive. The department again posted on social media and began searching for the girl.
“After seeing the department’s Facebook post, a community member recognized the juvenile and contacted dispatch with information about a recent sighting near North City Market overlooking the river,” Garrison said.
Detectives then went to the area and safely located the girl.
Garrison said both incidents showed how community engagement through social media can help officers quickly respond to incidents involving missing children.
“Residents who shared posts, remained alert, and contacted law enforcement with information played a direct role in helping officers quickly and safely locate all three juveniles,” Garrison said.
In these situations, Garrison residents can be an asset to officers by being aware and keeping their eyes peeled if a kid is reported missing.
“Just be an observant adult is the best key,” Garrison said. “And if you see a kid doing something that you feel is unsafe, and they may be a missing juvenile, give us a call.”
Garrison said calling dispatch at (970) 385-2900 or 911 is the best way to get in touch with responders quickly.
As for juveniles who may choose to strike out on their own, Garrison urged them to be communicative with their guardians and stay close to trusted adults, which can avoid incidents like Saturday’s.
“Don’t do anything that is going to get you hurt,” Garrison said. “Just be smart and stay near your people.”
Additionally, if a child is in need of mental health or medical help, Garrison said the department’s co-responder program is there to help.
“If there are kids that are out there that are in crisis, we have resources for them,” Garrison said. “If there’s not an adult that they can trust, they can find one of us, and I guarantee one of our officers would get them the help they need.”
Reader Comments