Frankfort, IL – A large-scale search continues across Frankfort and surrounding portions of Will County today as authorities, volunteers and specialized search teams work to locate an 11-year-old child with special needs who disappeared Thursday evening.
According to the Frankfort Police Department, search-and-rescue teams, first responders and community volunteers searched throughout the night for Joey, who was last seen at approximately 6 p.m. Thursday in the 10400 block of Brookridge Creek Drive.
Police said organized search teams and additional resources are continuing operations Friday as officials work to locate the missing child.
Authorities are urging volunteers assisting in the search to use caution due to soft ground conditions and other hazards left behind by recent severe weather. Searchers are also being asked to respect private property while assisting in the effort.
The disappearance has drawn an overwhelming response from the community, with hundreds of volunteers offering assistance since Thursday evening.
Frankfort police are asking residents throughout the area to review surveillance and security camera footage from Thursday evening and overnight hours for anything that may help investigators determine Joey’s whereabouts.
Anyone with information is urged to call 911 immediately or contact Frankfort Police dispatch at 815-485-2500.
Police have repeatedly emphasized that even seemingly minor information could be important to the investigation.
In a statement, the department thanked community members, first responders and search-and-rescue organizations that have participated in the effort.
“We cannot adequately express our gratitude for the overwhelming support from our community volunteers, as well as the first responders and search and rescue organizations that assisted throughout the night,” the department said.
Officials said updates will continue to be provided as the search progresses.
