Frankfort, IL – Police in Frankfort are asking for the public’s help as an intensive search continues for an 11-year-old child with special needs who was reported missing Thursday evening.
According to the Frankfort Police Department, Joey was last seen in the 10400 block of Brookridge Creek Drive after leaving his residence on foot. Police said he was wearing a tie-dye shirt when he disappeared.
Authorities are urging anyone who sees Joey or has information about his whereabouts to call 911 immediately or contact the Frankfort Police Department at 815-485-2500.
As concern spread throughout the community, hundreds of volunteers began offering assistance. Police issued an update asking volunteers to remain in their vehicles and avoid independently searching areas while K-9 teams conduct tracking operations.
“We have a large number of individuals volunteering to assist,” the department said in its update. “At this time, we need volunteers to stay in their vehicles so the K9s can do their job.”
Officials have designated Grand Prairie Elementary School as the volunteer staging area and are asking residents not to gather at the Frankfort Post Office or other locations. Search teams are coordinating efforts from the school parking lot and will provide instructions as needed.
The disappearance has generated widespread concern across Frankfort and surrounding communities, with residents sharing information and offering assistance throughout the evening.
Police have not released additional details regarding the circumstances surrounding Joey’s disappearance but emphasized that locating him remains the department’s top priority.
Anyone in the Frankfort area is encouraged to remain alert and immediately report any possible sightings to law enforcement rather than attempting to approach or transport the child themselves.
The search remains active, and additional updates are expected as the investigation continues.
